'••* 


^    THI    \ 


FAMILIAR  LETTERS 


OF 


ANN    WILLSON. 


<'  The  sun  shall  be  no  more  thj  light  bj  day,  neither  for  brightness  shall 
the  moon  give  light  unto  thee;  but  the  I-ord  shall  be  unto  thee  an  everlasting 
light,  and  thj  God  thy  glory." 

♦'  Thy  sun  shall  no  more  go  down;  neither  shall  thy  moon  withdraw  itself; 
for  the  fx)rd  shall  be  thine  everlasting  light,  and  the  days  of  thy  mourning 
shall  be  ended." 


PHILADELPHIA: 

WM.  D.  PARRISH  &  CO.,  NO.  4  N.  FIFTH  STREET. 

1850. 


2.9-/'S'0  3  J 


MERRinEW  &  Thompson,  Printers, 
7  Carter's  Alley. 


BIOGRAPHICAL   SKETCH. 


Ann  Willson  was  the  daughter  of  John  and  Rebecca  Will- 
son,  of  Rahway,  East  Jersey.  Her  childhood  was  marked  by  an 
ardent  and  affectionate  temperament,  and  while  her  timorous 
and  sensitive  nature  shrank  from  the  observation  of  strangers, 
in  the  domestic  circle  were  developed  those  various  traits  that 
BO  conspicuously  adorned  her  more  matured  character.  In  the 
twenty  third  year  of  her  age,  she  had  first  to  drink  of  the  cup 
of  affliction,  by  the  death  of  her  beloved  father,  to  whom  she 
was  not  only  attached  by  nature's  tie,  but  by  a  strong  spiritual 
affinity. 

About  five  years  after,  her  maternal  support  was  also  remov- 
ed. Her  feelings  on  these  occasions  arc  more  fully  portrayed 
in  her  letters  to  her  friends,  than  they  could  be  by  the  language 
of  another.  Iler  brother  Samuel,  four  years  older  than  herself, 
she  and  a  younger  sister,  now  composed  the  family.  The 
latter  married  in  the  spring  of  1827,  and  removed  to  the  south- 
ern part  of  Jersey ;  and  in  the  10th  mo.  following,  he  to  whom 
she  clung  with  peculiar  tenderness,  and  who  was  emphatically 
her  earthly  stay,  was  called  to  his  eternal  home.  Under  these 
repeated  bereavements  she  evidenced  a  holy  resignation,  in 
which  was  uttered  from  the  depths  of  feeling,  "  Thy  will  be 
done."  Soon  after  the  decease  of  her  brother  S.,  she  went  to 
reside  with  her  brother  and  sister  at  Port  Elizabeth,  N.  J. 
.Her  frequent  allusions  to  her  home  with  them,  prove  the  af- 
fectionate solicitude  with  which  they  were  regarded.  Not- 
withstanding her  delicate  and  slender  constitution,  she  was 
here  eminently  useful,  blending  the  characters  of  aunt  and 
mother  in  the  full  adoption  of  the  children.  And  it  is  princi- 
pally that  these  objects  of  her  care  may  have  a  knowledge  of 


4  BTOGRAPIIICAL    SKETCH. 

one  who  watched  their  infantile  years  with  unremitted  anx- 
iety, and  who  appeared  to  live  for  them  rather  than  for  herself, 
that  this  little  volume  of  "Familiar  Letters"  has  been  compiled, 
— believing  they  present  a  more  faithful  portrait  of  her  pure 
and  cultivated  mind  than  could  be  otherwise  drawn.  And  for 
the  more  full  accomplishment  of  this,  though  they  were  often 
written  in  a  hurried  moment,  and  not  with  the  most  remote 
view  to  publicity,  from  which  her  humility  would  have  recoiled, 
they  are  given  in  their  native  dress,  except  an  occasional  trans- 
position of  a  word  or  two,  and  the  omission  of  such  parts  as 
were  of  interest  only  to  those  concerned. 

The  love  of  the  beautiful  and  good  is  so  strongly  depicted 
throughout  them,  that  it  scarcely  requires  a  notice  here,  and 
yet  it  was  so  interwoven  with  each  word  and  deed,  that  it 
seems  inseparable  from  thought  of  her. 

The  crowning  virtue,  charity,  was  her  diadem  ;  if  fault  was 
found  with  another  in  her  presence,  she  invariably  had  some 
palliative  to  offer,  thus  bearing  an  uncompromising  testimony 
against  detraction. 

Contrary  to  her  usual  practice  in  matters  of  duty,  when  her 
feelings  were  arrested  on  the  subject  of  Free  Produce,  she 
turned  from  the  requisition,  unwilling  to  yield,  and  for  a  long 
time  carefully  avoided  reading  anything  upon  the  subject ;  but 
one  day,  on  opening  the  New  Testament,  her  eye  rested  upon 
the  23d  verse  of  the  14th  chap,  of  Romans  ;  she  closed  the  book 
disarmed  of  all  opposition,  and  continued  through  the  remain- 
der of  her  life,  a  period  of  more  than  twenty  years,  faithful  to 
her  convictions  by  abstaining  as  far  as  possible  from  the  use  of 
the  products  of  unrequited  labor. 

In  1834,  after  many  seasons  of  secret  suffering,  she  appear- 
ed as  a  minister.  To  use  her  own  simile,  she  "  was  obliged  to 
expose  her  simple  w^ares  for  the  sake  of  a  livelihood.''  Her 
offerings  were  distinguished  for  their  vitality  and  originality — 
often  exemplifying  the  proverb,  that,  "  A  word  fitly  spoken,  is 
as  apples  of  gold  in  pictures  of  silver.'' 

She  became  a  member  of  the  meeting  for  Ministers  and 
Elders  in   1836.     During  that  winter,  she   accompanied  her 


BIOGRAPHICAL    SKETCH.  5 

friend,  J,  J.,  In  a  visit  to  the  Particular  and  Monthly  Meet- 
ings of  Salem  Quarter,  and  to  some  meetings  within  the  limits 
of  Burlington  and  Iladdonfield.  She  subsequently  visited  the 
families  of  her  own  Monthly  Meeting,  (^Maurice  River,)  also 
those  of  Woodbury,  Piles  Grove,  Rahway,  and  Plainficld,  and 
a  number  belonging  to  Kingwood.  For  this  service  she  was 
peculiarly  qualified,  possessing  in  an  eminent  degree,  the  gift 
of  quick  spiritual  discernment.  Her  religious  missions  were 
not  frequent ;  the  most  distant  was  that  to  the  land  of  her 
nativity,  which  is  touchingly  alluded  to  in  one  or  more  of  her 
letters. 

The  death  of  her  brother-in-law,  I.  Townsend,  Jr.,  in  the 
summer  of  1839,  opened  again  the  floodgate  of  affliction.  In 
this  hour  of  trial  she  not  only  sought  refuge  herself  beneath 
the  wing  of  Divine  Love,  but  extended  a  hand  to  gather  the 
widow  and  the  fatherless  under  its  shadow. 

Her  health,  which  had  never  been  strong,  was  now  evidently 
declining,  attended  with  much  suffering. 

In  the  spring  of  1842,  she  removed  with  her  sister  and 
family  to  Philadelphia.  Iler  indisposition  continuing  to  in- 
crease, she  yielded  to  the  wishes  of  her  friends,  who  hoped  a 
visit  to  New  York  might  be  useful ;  but  after  a  tarriance  there 
of  several  months,  she  returned,  without  being  materially  bene- 
fitted. Her  mind  during  this  period  was  quiet  and  peaceful. 
She  significantly  remarked,  "  that  her  work  basket  was  empty, 
and  she  seemed  to  have  nothing  to  do.'^  A  few  daj's  before 
her  close  she  observed  to  a  friend,  that  she  "felt  as  a  child 
resting  upon  a  paternal  bosom.''  Thus  ended  her  excellent 
life  on  the  4th  of  12th  mo.  1843,  in  the  46th  year  of  her  age. 


LETTERS  OF  ANN  WILLSON. 


To  H.  S- 


1st  month  29tk,  1820. 

With  friendship's  request  I  would  willingly  comply, 
could  the  effusions  of  my  heart  in  any  wise  interest,  but 
thou  knowest,  my  dear  H.,  'tis  with  me  mentally  a  season 
of  gloom  and  dejection,  and  Anna's  mind  well  accords 
with  the  sadness  of  nature  over  which  winter  has  cast  her 
freezing  mantle — even  so  has  sorrow  thrown  her  sable 
garb  over  the  gaiety  and  cheerfulness  of  my  thoughts.  Can 
then  a  solitary  recluse  light  up  a  ray  of  pleasure  in  the 
peaceful  heart  of  her  absent  (though  well-loved)  friend  ?  but 
this  may  my  dull  scrawl  say — though  adversity  has  way- 
laid my  path,  yet  has  she  not  been  able  to  chill  the  genial 
stream  of  love  which  full  oft  flows  towards  thee. 

New  things  are  not  for  Anna  to  communicate,  for  she 
has  remained  in  home's  vicinity  ever  since  thou  left  us, 
and  had  it  not  been  for  the  kindness  of  some  friends  who 
called  a  few  minutes,  I  should,  T  suppose,  have  remained 
ignorant  of  thy  departure.  I  rejoiced  to  hear  thou  hadst 
set  out  on  a  little  jaunt  of  enjoyment,  though  I  am  a  loser 
thereby. 

Notwithstanding  the  snow  has  thrown  her  fleecy  car- 
pet over  earth's  surface,  and  wrapt  in  white  each  little 
twig,  and  clouds  have  veiled  the  fair  face  of  the  spangled 


8  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

sky,  yet  have  I  been  a  nocturnal  rambler  with  Hervey, 
and  listened  with  interest  to  his  nightly  contemplations. 
I  think  he  has  a  peculiar  faculty  for  drawing  an  impor- 
tantly pious  inference  from  even  trifling  subjects.  Dost 
thou  not,  with  me,  when  reading  works  of  this  kind,  feel 
respect  approaching  to  veneration  for  their  author  1 

Father  has  not  been  so  well  for  a  day  or  two  past ;  his 
is  so  variable  a  complaint  that  I  am  oft  ready  to  tremble 
lest  the  next  change  may  be  a  final  one.  Thou  may'st, 
my  dear,  conclude,  I  lack  magnanimity  to  bear  with 
becoming  firmness  the  ills  of  life  ;  of  this  I  am  sensible, 
yet  still  trust  my  friends  will  cherish  for  me  a  sympa- 
thetic feeling,  well  knowing  'tis  difficult  for  nature 
passively  to  yield  to  so  trying  an  allotment,  and  resign- 
edly to  say  "  not  my  will  but  thine,"  Parent  of  Wisdom, 
^'he  done."  Assuredly  believing  that  charity  abideth 
among  the  inmates  of  thy  heart,  to  her  I  refer  thee  for  a 
palliation  of  each  fault,  and  am,  in  affection  sincere,  thine, 
&c.  Anna. 

To    H.  S . 

1820. 
I  have  for  days  past,  been  waiting  an  opportunity 
verbally  to  thank  thee  for  the  plant  of  feeling,*  well 
assured  it  accords  with  the  delicacy  of  thy  own  sympathy, 
which,  though  words  have  seldom  expressed,  I  have 
deeply  felt — for  silence  possesses  a  voice  more  eloquent 
than  language.  Suffice  it  to  say,  I  have  understood  and 
acceptably  received  it — but  acknowledgement  therefor 
has  only  been  mentally  uttered;  well  I  knew,  did  I  orally 
make  known  the  gratitude  which  rested  on  my  heart,  it 

*  Sensitive  Plant. 


ANN    WILLSON.  ^ 

would  unlock  the  portals  of  sorrow,  and  perhaps  so  much 
unhinge  the  little  strength  of  mind  I  am  possessor  of,  as 
to  unfit  me  for  enjoying  thy  company  and  converse 
during  the  remainder  of  the  time  we  were  together ; 
therefore  I  have  suppressed  the  feeling  which  flowed 
secretly  and  silently  towards  thee— 'tis  very  necessary  I 
should  endeavor  to  overcome  nature.  In  my  dear  mother's 
bosom  the  wound  continues  yet  too  fresh,  and  'tis  my  duty, 
as  a  daughter,  as  much  as  in  me  lies,  to  soothe  and  console 
her,  though  well  I  know  to  me  belongs  not  the  power 
effectually  to  do  this,  but  I  trust  my  cheerfulness  will 
assist  in  supporting  her  drooping  spirits,  and  my  fervent 
and  ardent  desire  is,  that  He,  in  whose  hand  remains 
Gilead's  all  powerful  balm,  will  remember  us,  and  in  his 
own  appointed  time  pour  forth  the  oil  of  consolation  and 
comfort.  Not  without  agitated  emotions,  and  a  tremulous 
hand,  do  I  commit  these  lines  to  thy  perusal  5  cast  over 
them  the  mantle  of  sisterly  feeling ;  and  believe  with  me 
that  mutual  confidence  is  one  of  friendship's  first  laws, 
without  which,  the  tender  pledge  of  reciprocal  affection 
cannot  gather  strength.  Feeling  quite  indisposed  this 
morning,  I  retired  to  my  chamber  as  if  to  repose,  but 
"  sleep  swift  on  his  downy  pinions  flies  from  woe,  and 
lights  on  lids  unsullied  with  a  tear,"  on  hearts  unladen 
with  a  sigh.  My  love  is  to  thee  and  with  thee  affection- 
ately.    Farewell.  Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Rahway,  \Othmo.  17th,  1820. 
My  friend  S.  has  many  times  during  the  past  week,  been 
the  companion  of  my  mind,  but  varied  engagements  have 
hitherto   prevented   my   telling    thee    so;     when   thine 


10  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

arrived,  the  rain  was  pouring  upon  our  dwelling  5  but 
Anna,  welcomed  the  storm  of  the  morning  that  brought 
with  it  tidings  of  Sally  Ann.     I  regret  to  hear  disease 

still  lingers  in  your  metropolis ;  but,  alas  I  'tis  not  in  P 

alone,  that  its  eifects  are  knovvn  and  felt ;  for  the  voice  of 
grief  is  also  heard  in  our  land  ;  the  messenger  undeniable 
has  again  visited  earth — the  amiable  Bertha  is  with  me  a 
fatherless  mourner.  I  feel  for  her,  and  I  trust  mine  is 
sympathy  sincere,  for  I  have  wept  over  the  relics  of 
departed  worth,  and  felt  the  full  solemnity  of  sorrow  at  a 
time  when  my  own  life  was  not  precious  in  my  sight ; 
yet  there  is  a  consolation  attendant  on  the  exit  of  the 
Christian  with  which  naught  below  can  be  compared  ; 
and  in  this  alone  have  I  really  found  the  "joy  of  grief.'* 
Oh!  that  the  same  comfortable  evidence  may  be  the 
soother  of  my  dear  afflicted  friend,  whom  I  have  not  seen 
since  the  consignment  of  dust  to  dust;  but  I  greatly 
desire  to  clasp  her  hand  in  mine,  and  alleviate  as  much  as 
in  me  lies  the  anguish  of  her  heart  ;  yea,  for  I  can  set  my 
seal  to  the  words  of  Irving,  "  there  are  moments  of 
mingled  sorrow  and  tenderness,  which  hallow  the 
caresses  of  aifection ;"  but  why  should  I  dwell  upon  those 
things'?  May  the  clouds  of  the  mental  hemisphere,  at  least 
for  a  season,  be  dispelled  and  the  sun  of  pleasure  beam 
through  the  shades  of  the  past. 

Hast  thou  seen  a  little  piece  entitled  the  Good  Master 
and  the  Faithful  Slave  ?  a  noble  portrait,  I  think,  of  a 
generous  feeling  mind  in  the  former,  and  attachment 
and  gratitude  in  the  latter.  I  would  have  sent  it 
thee,  but  feared  I  should  only  burden  thee  with  what 
thou  hast  already  perused. 

How  serious  and  how  frauo;ht  with  instruction  is  the 


ANN    WILL  SON. 


11 


present  aspect  of  nature  !  the  vegetable  world  fast  de- 
caying, is  truly  emblematical  of  man's  frail  declining 
state.  The  bud  and  the  leaf  in  renovated  beauty  again 
shall  shoot  forth,  but  "  man's  faded  glory,  what  earthly 
change  shall  renew."  This  day  has  been  so  cold  that  I 
have  been  almost  shaking  in  our  jireless  store,  and  fear 
from  this  first  introduction  of  cold  weather.  Winter  will 
encroach  largely  on  the  premises  of  his  neighbor,  Autumn  5 
and  glad  enough  have  I  been,  at  intervals,  to  get  a  seat  in 
the  little  back  room  chimney  corner.  Thou  may,  if  thou 
wilt,  fancy  me  gabbling  to  my  customers,  but  take  care 
not  to  listen  to  "  very  good  and  very  cheap.'' 

From  cousin  M.  I  this  day  expected  letters,  but  come 
they  have  not ;  to  what  cause  to  impute  the  omission  I 
know  not ;  but  believe,  from  the  import  of  her  last  to  me, 
that  when  the  query  is  made,  "  are  Friends  just  in  the  pay- 
ment of  their  debts  1"  she  will  find  herself  lacking. 
Mother  and  A.  desire  their  love  may  have  a  place  in  this, 
I  had  almost  said,  worthless  scrawl ;  but  of  as  little  value 
as  it  is,  it  may  be  the  bearer  of  mv  sincere  love  to 

S.  A. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Rahway,  '^th  mo.  18^A,  1821. 
Embosomed  in  that  enjoyment  which  thou  well  knows 
my  'cousin  M.  can  bestow,  how  can  I  be  otherwise  than 
one  of  the  children  of  pleasure  1  Yet,  mark  it,  dear, 
"  the  thorn,  though  secreted,  still  lurks  near  the  rose" — 
yes,  joy  and  sorrow  are  mingled  in  life's  illusive  path  ; 
and  if  thou  wilt  not  deem  it  intruding  on  the  hours  de- 
voted to  joy  and  rejoicing,  I  will  speak  ;  otherwise  my 
pen  must  be  silent,  for  with  notes  of  gladness  I  cannot 


12  FA31ILL-\R    LETTERS    OF 

now  impress  this  spotless  page.     My  heart  is  turned  to 
sorrow,  and  thou  wilt  not  ask  of  me  mirth.     An  aunt 
dearly  beloved  has  gone  the  way  of  all  the  earth — yes, 
the  aged  has  gone  to  her  long  home.     Thou  wilt  per- 
haps recollect  aunt  S.  H.     After  an  half  hour's  illness 
she  sunk  into  that   sleep  which  is  marked  with  eternal 
quiet   and  rest.     In  peace,  I  trust,  her  immortal  spirit 
has  left  its  clay  tenement,  and  now  inhabits  that  land 
which  the  righteous  alone  inherit.     We  know  there  is 
no  cause  of  mourning  for  the  departed,  as  a  dear  friend 
expressed  while  we  were  silently  sitting  at  the  habita- 
tion whose  owner  knowelh  it  no  longer.     "Daughters 
of  Jerusalem,  weep  not  for  me,  but  weep  for  yourselves 
and   for  your  children."     Oh !    while   thus   numbered 
with  the   assembled   company  to  perform  the  last  sad 
office,  how  oft  to  time  gone  by  the  thoughts  of  Anna 
sped.    Yes,  memory  pictured  scenes  alas  too  true  ! — the 
painful  season  when  I  resigned,  or  rather  co?isigned,  to 
earth's  low  dwelling  a  form  so  loved^  so  valued.     Thou, 
my  friend,  knowest  there  are  times  when  the  chords  of 
sorrow  need   but  a  touch ;  yet  am  I  not  joyless,  even 
when  mantled  in  sadness — no,  in  that  hope  I  desire  t  o 
put   my  trust   which   leads  the  wanderer  on  her  way  ; 
and  surely  the  young  have  equal  need  of  trimming  the 
lamp  and  being  ready  to   go   forth   to  meet  the  bride- 
groom  at   w'hatsoever  hour  his  coming  be  proclaimed. 
Ah,  yes  !  for  even  Mary's  virtues  averted  not  the  blow  ; 
death,  irresistless,  came  and  laid   her  low;  a  father's 
stay,  a  father's  hope,  a  father's  joy,  alas !  forever  gone. 
It  reminds  me  of  the  gardener  and  rose  tree.     She  w^as 
very  amiable,  and   I   believe   a   truly  pious   girl,  and 


ANN    WILLSON. 


13 


doubtless  is  transplanted  to  another  garden  far  more 
beautiful  and  fair.* 

To  this  dear  girl  I  felt  strongly  attached  ;  but  nipped 
are  the  buds  of  promised  happiness — worldly  bliss  pays 
but  a  rainbow  visit,  then's  away.  Yet  do  I  not  sorrow 
as  those  who  behold  not  the  bright  star  of  Hope,  which 
rises  as  a  sun  to  gild  and  light  the  mental  hemisphere  ; 
when,  but  for  it,  clouds  and  thick  darkness  would  have 
overwhelmed  all  other  feelings,  it  brightly  dawns  a  day 
upon  the  night  of  sorrow,  and  bids  affliction's  children 
yet  lift  up  their  heads.  But  in  thus  noting  my  bereave- 
ments, ought  I  not  also  to  number  my  blessings,  which 
I  am  sensible  are  many — and  among  them  the  com- 
pany of  my  dear  cousins,  M.  and  A.,  deserves  a  place. 

I  enjoin  it  upon  thee  not  to  let  the  perusal  of  this 
grief-shaded  sheet  trespass  on  thy  hours  of  gladness; 
let  it  not  damp  one  spark  of  joy  which  in  thy  bosom 
glows,  for  full  well  I  know  the  hour  arrives,  and  now  is 
near  at  hand,  when  thy  heart  should  only  wake  to 
pleasure.  Clear  be  the  day,  bright  the  ray,  which 
marks  and  witnesses  the  unity, 

I  paid,  the  other  night,  Glenov/en  a  dreaming  visit, 
but  behold  no  Sally  Ann  was  there;  'twas  sclitary  and 
deserted  ;  no  inhabitant  could  I  find,  and  sadly  disap^ 
pointed  I  homeward  turned,  after  having  plucked  a 
branch  in  deep  verdure  drest  from  off  one  of  the  tall 
trees  which  o'erlook  Glenowen's  walls,  and  placed  it  in 
a  topmost  crevice  of  the  railing  before  the  door,  as  proof 
to  thee,  my  friend,  I  had  been  there,  and  thought  when 
I  arrived   at  my  own  village  I  should  write  and  desire 

*Allilding  to  the  recent  death  of  a  young  friend  of  hers, 
o 


14  FAMILIAR    LETTERS   OF 

thee  to  go  look  for  the  green  bough  5  but  on  awakening, 
behold  'twas  but  a  sleeping  journey. 

My  dear  mother  has  been  quite  ill  for  a  week  past, 
but  is  so  much  better  to-day  as  to  have  left  her  cham- 
ber. I  am  glad,  and  know  that  her  returning  health 
demands  the  offering  of  my  humble  gratitude.  Oh, 
long  may  she  yet  be  spared  me! 

After  the  wedding  ceremonies  are  over,  cannot  thou 
come  and  spend  vacation  with  usl  Though  Anna's 
pleasures  are  simple,  yet  could  thou  not  partake  of 
them  with  feelings  of  interest  1 — remembering,  pleasure, 
when  too  ardently  pursued,  is  like  the  butterfly,  crushed 
in  the  grasp — but  from  the  small  and  stilly  stream  en- 
joyment flows.  Accept  love  from  mother  and  sister, 
also  from  thy  attached,  though  absent,  Ay7<A. 

Rakwaij,  Sth  mo.  13t/i,  1821. 

The  morning  of  Mary's  departure  dawned  in  clouds; 
Anna's  heart  partook  of  its  shades,  but  behold,  the  sun 
mounting  high  dispersed  this  dark  envelopment,  and 
brightness  mantled  the  sky.  Little  did  I  think  'twas 
to  be  emblematical  of  thy  friend  ;  but  ere  the  day  was 
lost  in  that  softened  light  which  marks  its  departure, 
(the  hour  peculiarly  dear  to  my  feelings,)  thy  sheet,  my 
beloved  Sally  Ann,  was  received  and  accepted  with 
delight  which  utterance  can  scarcely  tell  thee — for  what 
greater  earthly  joy  have  absent  friends  to  feel,  than  to 
know  by  mementos  of  this  kind  that  they  still  hold  a 
place  in  the  remembrance  of  those  they  love  1 

Separation  from  my  beloved  M.  spread  gloom  o'er 
my  mind,  and  again,  and  yet  again,  did  I  repeat  the 
wish  that  our  dwelling  places  were  approximate,  that 
so  parting  might  not  shade  the  pleasure  of  meeting ; 


ANxN    WILLSON.  15 

and  time  here  might  roll  on  in  union  sweet  and  un- 
broken. But  'tis  necessary,  I  well  know,  that  little 
sorrows  and  griefs  should  be  permitted,  to  prevent  lis 
from  wholly  centering  our  afTections  on  earth,  else 
would  allurements  here  almost  steal  us  from  the  con- 
templation of  that  better  and  happier  clime,  where  the 
shadow  of  good  here  is  perfected  into  substance.  Oh  ! 
could  wishes,  my  dear  friend,  work  out  acceptance  for 
us,  our  labor  would  soon  be  completed,  and  nought 
remain  for  us  but  patient  waiting  the  appointed  time 
to  pass  from  this  world  into  the  next  !  But  "to  die  the 
death  of  the  righteous,  we  must  live  the  life  of  the 
righteous;"  and  though  this  is  deeply  impressed  with 
the  pen  of  truth  upon  the  tablet  of  my  heart,  yet  it  is 
no  easy  matter  really  to  put  in  practice  every  Christian 
obligation  and  find  life  by  losing  it,  as  regards  our  own 
will.  But  why,  oh  why!  on  sacred  themes  thus  unex- 
perimentally  dare  to  lift  my  voice!  Let  me  be  silent, 
though  not  regardless,  and  look  with  the  eye  of  hope 
toward  that  hour,  when,  like  dear  M.  H.,  I  may  feel 
such  an  evidence  of  mental  peace  as  no  longer  to  desire 
to  be  continued  an  inhabitant  of  this  lower  sphere;  but, 
assured  of  an  entrance  into  that  rest  which  ends  not, 
joyfully  leave  the  world. 

Thy  mind,  my  dear,  must,  I  think,  have  been  con- 
tending with,  or  rather  been  balanced,  by  two  very 
opposite  emotions.  The  figure  of  grief  on  the  right, 
whose  pensive  countenance  was  mournfully  shaded 
with  deep  touches  of  sorrow,  contrasting  with  the  light 
step  and  smiling  aspect  of  her  who  presides  at  the  hy- 
menial  feast,  half  covered  with  blossoms  of  happiness, 
yet  lacking  the  amaranthine  gift,  wholly  to  o'erspread 


16  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

the  path  of  those  whom  she  was  about  to  enwreath  with 
the  flowers  of  this  fleeting  life.  Sorrow  and  joy,  like 
the  cloud  and  the  rainbow,  are  oft  cotemporary  ;  the 
one  threatens,  the  other  is  full  of  promises. 

Oh !  ever  may  there  be  a  rainbow  to  the  tear  ! 

And  though  its  stay  is  transient  here, 

It  seems  like  to  a  little  glimpse  of  Heaven. 

Our  Quarterly  meeting  is  now  near.  S.  G.  has  al- 
ready come  in  town,  and  to-morrow  I  suppose  S.  B., 
H.  H.  and  others  from  Pennsylvania  will  be  here. 
Would  thou  not  like  to  be  numbered  with  us,  particu- 
larly could  we  really  sit  at  meat  with  those  who  are 
true  disciples  and  partake  of  a  morsel  of  that  food 
which  nourisheth  the  spirit, 

I,  like  thee,  desire  our  communications  may  be  free 
and  frequent.  Indisposition  in  our  family,  together  with 
much  business,  has  been  the  cause  of  my  not  writing 
ere  now.  Why,  oh  why  !  dost  thou  give  me  so  little 
hope  of  seeing  thee  %  I  have  some  cypress  vines  near 
the  door,  the  seeds  of  which  M.  H.  sent  me;  they  look 
flourishing,  and  are  just  beginning  to  unfold  their  purple 
blossoms — but  they,  like  her,  will  soon  he  gone. 

Do  write  soon  to  her  who  is  still  thy  own  friend, 

Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Rahwny,  29ih  of  9t/i  mo.  1821. 
Yes,  said    my  heart,  while  perusing   those  sweet  poetic 
lines,  my  feelings  speak   their  worth — for  days   departed 
are  to  me  the  theme  of  many  a  thought,  and  I  can  truly, 
with  the  poet,  acknowledge 


ANN    WILL^ON.  17 

"  There  is  yot  a  lonely  light 
That  dawns  upon  the  hour  of  sadness, 
And  to  me,  'tis  oft  more  welcome  than  the  thrill  of  gladness." 

In  seasons  like  this,  I  someHmes  too  am  led  secretly  to 
rejoice  in  the  remembrance,  that 

"  There  is  a  bloom  that  never  fades, 
A  rose  no  storms  can  sever, 
Beyond  earth's  variable  shades, 
The  ray  that  beams  forever." 

Another  summer  is  gone,  and  blossomed  beauty  is  fast 
departing  from  us  ;  welcome  autumn  "  sae  pensive  in  yel- 
low and  brown,  thou  tells  us  'tis  true  o'  nature's  decay," 
but  congenial  to  my  heart  is  the  language  even  of  a  cold 
stormy  day.  To  yon  distant  wood  my  eye  this  morning 
turned  with  the  recollection  that  its  still,  deep,  and  ver- 
dant foliage  must  ere  long  be  changed  for  stripped  and 
desolated  branches — fit  theme  for  meditation  serious — 
emblem  of  thee,  oh  man!  thy  summer  sands  will  soon  be  run? 
and  to  life's  autumnal  vale  thou  fast  art  hastening — thy  heart 
knows  and  feels  this  truth,  and  I'll  forbear  to  moralize. 
Such  subjects  were  fitter  far  for  thy  pen.  And  dost  thou 
see  marked  on  our  coming  time  no  little  line  of  bliss, 
colored  with  the  hue  of  union  sweet,  communion  dear? 
Hope's  beacon  yet  I'll  fondly  cherish,  and  think  much  joy 
is  still  in  store,  and  with  it  perhaps  is  mixed  an  interview 
with  thee,  thou  loved  one. 

I  rejoice  in  the  assurance  that  inclination  would  have 
led  thee  to  the  abode  of  thy  friend,  had  it  been  within 
the  circumference  of  thy  wandering  ;  as  to  inducements, 
they  are  not  wanting  for  me  to  pass  some  days  with  thee, 
within  Glenowen's  walls,  or  where'er  my  Sally  Ana 
now   lives — but    I  am    so  circumstanced    as  not  to   allow 


18  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

myself  many  pleasures  of  that  kind — my  time  is  sacrificed 
at  the  shrine  of  business,  but  I  trust  Anna  is  with  her  lot 
content,  so  long  as  she  is  in  possession  of  the  affection  of 
her  friends. 

This  morning's  sun  rose  bright  and  clear  ;  the  drops  of 
night  still  glitter  in  its  rays ;  tranquillity  rests  on  my 
spirit,  and  peace  on  my  heart ;  nature  herself  is  peaceful, 
and  strongly  reminds  me  of  the  Christian's  decline,  when 
numbering  his  latter  days  and  looking  with  holy  hope 
towards  the  exit  of  his  years.  A  quiet  calm  covers  his 
mind  ;  his  feelings,  blissful  in  their  repose,  are  a  foretaste 
of  heaven  upon  earth,  and  an  earnest  of  that  eternal  spring 
into  which  he  is  about  to  be  ushered. 

Dost  thou,  dear,  think  me  much  too  serious?  Alas!  time, 
so  swiftly  passing,  demands  such  solemn  thought ;  would, 
oh  would,  practice  kept  pace  with  words,  but  how  great 
our  propensities  to  partake  of  earth's  forbidden  fruit ;  and 
for  such  transgressions  we  oft  have  to  wander  where 
there  are  no  streams  of  water,  and  where  the  well  of  life 
everlasting  is  not  to  be  found.  Would  it  not  be  pleasure  to 
thee  to  take  the  arm  of  thy  far  distant  friend,  and  with  her 
walk  to  some  embow'ring  wood  ere  yet  it  strews  its  leafy 
verdure  on  the  ground,  and  mark,  on  gazing  round,  the 
gradual  change  in  nature's  face,  and  read  a  lesson  there 
not  uninstructive;  thou  lovest^  I  know,  the  country,  and 
all  seasons  doubtless  have  a  charm  for  thee. 

Our  beloved  M.  gave  me  an  interesting  account  of  her 
journey  northward,  by  sending  me  her  diary.  Thou,  I  doubt 
not,  hast  also  received  the  sum  and  substance  of  her  enjoy- 
ments in  that  excursion;  I  therefore  need  not  mention  them. 
Thy  letter,  containing  an  account  of  thy  travels,  I  have 
not  vet  seen. 


ANN    WILLSON.  19 

Methinks  thou  art  ready  to  chide  for  such  frequent 
quotations,  but  let  me  query  whether  we  may  not  with 
propriety  use  the  words  of  another  when  he  expresses  our 
sentiments  and  meaning  even  more  plainly  than  we  our- 
selves should,  and  when  the  language  adopted  is  in  feeling 
our  own  ;  farewell^  and  when  thou  seest  Anna  err,  with 
freedom  speak.  A.  W. 

To  S.  A.  W . 

1st  mo.  1th,  1822. 

My  Dear  Friend  : — Thy  Anna  has  for  a  week  past 
been  gathering  the  roses  of  pleasure  without  receiving  a 
check  from  their  thorns.  1  have  sat  in  the  light  of  friend- 
ship, and  the  taper  of  affection  brightly  burned  before  me  ; 
round  the  fireside  of  my  beloved  Bertha  and  other  dear 
friends  a  part  of  this  season  of  sunshine  has  been  spent ; 
thou  wert  thought  of  and  spoken  of )  yea,  prosperity 
banished  not  the  memory  of  thee  ;  would  that  thou  had 
been  a  visitor  with  me.  While  absent,  thy  letter  came  ; 
it  met  me  at  my  return,  and  added  to  my  joy  in  being 
restored  to  the  maternal  roof,  and  finding  myself  again  in 
the  presence  of  those  most  dear  to  me.  "V\  hen  I  am  a 
wanderer,  home  does,  indeed,  seem  like  a  little  flow'ry  isle 
which  attracts  my  eye  wheresoe'er  I  go. 

Yesterday,  which  was  the  first  of  the  week,  about  the 
time  of  offering  up  the  evening  sacrifice,  while  the  assem- 
bly were  sitting  in  quietude,  one  of  our  ministers  arose 
and  pathetically  described  the  situation  of  Samuel,  while 
yet  a  youth,  when  he  knew  not  the  voice  of  the  Lord  ; 
but  instructed  by  Eli,  the  high  priest,  he  desired  the  mes- 
sage of  the  m.ost  High  might  be  delivered  to  him,  by 
humbly  replying,  «' speak,    for   thy  servant  heareth,"  and 


20  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

moreover,  she  added,  he  was  faithful  to  the  divine  requiring, 
and  imparted  to  Eli  what  was  to  befall  him.  After  thus 
delineating  the  obedience  of  Samuel,  she  addressed  herself 
to  the  young  Friends  present,  as  with  a  prophetic  spirit, 
desiring  they  would  simply  yield  to  divine  guidance  ;  she 
ceased,  and  stillness  again  o'erspread  the  gathered  few, 
(for  our  meetings  are  small,)  but  great  was  my  surprise 
when  a  female  seated  but  one  from  me,  arose,  and  with  a 
voice  tremulous  and  scarcely  articulate,  in  suppliant  man- 
ner invoked  the  throne  of  Truth.  It  was  an  affecting 
season,  and  strongly  reminded  me  of  an  address  to  the 
youth,  wherein  the  author  says — 

"The  summons  has  gone  forth,  but  not  in  vain. 
Nor  shall  the  word  come  empty  back  again  ; 
But  shall  perform  its  office,  as  you'll  see, 
I  speak  it  with  divine  authority ; 
Others  shall  be  call'd  in  from  distant  lands, 
Who  shall  be  glad  to  run  at  his  commands." 

This  I  thought  verified — for  she  had  lately  been  a  gay 
young  girl ;  but  a  few  months  since  had  been  convinced 
and  initiated  into  membership  with  us.  And  again,  "if  the 
natural  branches  bear  not  fruit  they  shall  be  cut  off,  and 
wild  ones  grafted  into  the  vine ;  thus,  my  friend,  we  see 
the  prophecy  is  fulfilled  and  fulfilling,  while  we  remain 
careless  and  negligent.  My  heart  often  laments  it,  and 
yet  delays  investigating  its  own  state,  till  a  more  suitable 
lime,  and  instead  of  obeying  the  feeling  which  this  inspec- 
tion might  perhaps  produce,  the  language  is,  go  thy  way 
for  this  once,  when  I  have  a  more  convenient  season  I 
will  hearken  to  the  reproof  of  the  internal  monitor. 

A  few  days  ago  I  visited  the  miserable  hut  of  one  of 
Afric's   injured    children.     The   boards  of  her   weather- 


ANN    WILLSON. 


21 


beaten  cot  had  tumbled  offone  after  another  till  the  wintry 
blast  and  lieecy  storm  could  easily  find  their  way  within. 
The  inhabitant  was  a  time  stricken  female  who,  doubtless 
had  seen  "  full  many  a  changeful  year."  She  had  gathered 
a  few  sticks,  which  were  her  only  fuel;  and  she  was 
apparently  in  want  of  almost  all  the  necessaries  of  life  ; 
alas  !  I  felt  myself  blest  in  my  comfortable  situation  ; 
raised  above  want  and  its  every  woful  feeling — but  the 
chord  of  compassion  was  touched  ;  my  heart  yearned  for 
her,  and  I  experienced  more  peace  in  visiting  the  tent  of 
the  sufferer,  than  if  I  had  gone  to  the  house  of  mirth,  or 
been  an  attendant  at  a  marriage  feast  to  which  I  had  been 
invited,  and  that  afternoon  was  the  appointed  time.  The 
groom  was  first  cousin  of  mine. 

8th.  The  sun  has  nae  been  seen  to  day  ;  a  snow  storm 
had  whitened  our  streets  this  morn,  but  it  is  now  likely  to 
end  with  rain — alas !  for  the  poor  wanderers  who  have 
not  a  shelter  from  it.  While  safely  shielded  in  our  own 
comfortable  habitation,  T  send  my  thoughts  abroad  and 
think  of  those  who  have  not  where  to  rest  their  weary 
feet,  and  dry  their  wet,  cold  clothing;  surely  gratitude  is 
due  to  Him  who  has  bless'd  us  above  others,  equally  as 
deserving,  and  perhaps  more  so. 

My  dear  S.,  though  some  situations  appear  more  conge- 
nial to  the  growth  of  piety  than  others,  and  thou  might 
be  more  happy  as  regards  the  natural  feelings,  yet,  I 
believe  situations  in  life  do  not  sensibly  affect  the  progress 
of  the  Christian  traveller,  as  thou  seem'st  to  suppose ;  but 
in  all  stations  and  circumstances  there  is  strength  given 
according  to  the  host  of  temptations  through  which  we 
must  unavoidably  pass  in  the  journey  heavenward.  For 
He  who  is  the  good  shepherd  of  the  flock  knows  exactly 


-•<i  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

what  portions  of  strength  and  ability  each  stands  in  need 
of,  and  disperses  unto  us  accordingly.  I,  like  thee,  love 
the  cottage  and  its  surrounding  scenery,  whose  trees 
nature  has  planted,  and  whose  wilding  blossoms  Flora's 
hand  cultures — the  peaceful  retreat  to  which  the  busy 
world  is  a  stranger — but  evil  thoughts  and  vain  imagina- 
tions will  penetrate  every  abode  of  man,  and  in  society  I 
believe  we  may  more  usefully  occupy  the  talent  given  us, 
if  it  be  even  the  least  among  the  ten. 

Speak  not  of  forgetfulness,  'twill,  I  trust,  never  banish, 
nor  e'en  dim  the  memory  of  thee.  I  do  not  desire  thy 
letters  to  be  better  written,  only  let  me  get  them  oftener; 
if  thou  apologises  I  shall  have  to  inspect  mine  own,  for  I 
am  sensible  of  their  faultiness,  even  when  I  am  silent  in 
regard  to  it;  for  I  do  not  want  to  waste  time  and  paper; 
only  receive  them,  if  thou  please,  in  the  spirit  in  which 
they  are  written,  even  that  of  love.  Thine,  &c., 

Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 

4th  mo.  9th,  1822. 
Were  T,  my  dear  Sally  Ann,  to  count  the  flight  of  time 
by  my  mental  improvement,  I  should  say  there  had  been 
a  long  pause  in  his  career ;  but  'tis  not  thus,  for  he  who 
waits  not  the  tardy  step  of  any,  is  fast  carrying  away  the 
days  of  the  years  of  my  life,  as  well  as  those  of  the  wise 
ones,  who  are  constantly  adding  knowledge  to  knowledge, 
and  progressing  from  one  degree  of  perfection  to  another. 
Thus  it  is  that  I  have  been  an  idler  during  the  past  winter, 
or  industriously  busy  in  doing  what  adds  not  to  the  cul- 
ture of  the  mind,  and  now,  while  perhaps  my  S.  A.  and 
some  others  are  o-atherino;  the  reward  of  their  cold  weather 


ANN    WILLSON.  23 

labors,  I  find  the  saying  verified,  that  whosoever  does  not 
sow,  shall  not  reap.  Deeply  sensible,  therefore,  of  my  pov- 
erty, and  humbled  under  the  reflection,  I  should  at  this  time 
have  held  my  peace,  would  that  feeling  which  wants 
utterance  have  suffered  me  to  remain  in  silence  and  hold 
myself  excusable.  This  proceeds  not,  my  beloved  friend, 
from  decrease  of  love  for  thee — no — but  rather  from 
an  introversion  of  mind,  and  finding  there  much  space 
unoccupied  by  profitable  guests.  How  then  shall  I  pre- 
sent myself  before  thee?  Verily,  not  with  the  tongue  of  the 
eloquent,  nor  '^the  pen  of  the  ready  writer  ;"  yet  perad- 
venture,  this  little  testimony  of  the  unchangeableness  of 
Anna's  affection,  will  meet  with  acceptance  in  thy  sight ; 
if  so  I  shall  be  content,  even  with  having  offered  unto 
thee  my  mite. 

I  should  rejoice  to  be  gathered  with  the  Israelites  this 
year  ;  yea,  or  to  be  numbered  with  the  multitude  who 
will  sit  (as  it  were)  under  the  teachings  of  those  disciples 
who  are  commanded  to  hand  forth  to  the  people.  Thou, 
my  dear  friend,  will  be  one  of  the  privileged  ones,  and 
when  enjoying  these  solemn  feasts,  wilt  thou  not  rem.em- 
ber  thy  far  distant  friend. 

Much  shall  I  miss  my  beloved  mother,  it  having  been 
a  longj  long  time  since  she  has  been  absent  from  us  for  so 
many  days,  yet  I  trust  her  safe  return  to  us  will  gladden 
the  hearts  of  her  children.  It  is  by  being  separated,  that 
we  are  taught  how  fully  to  estimate  the  worth  of  those 
who  are  dear  to  us. 

Again  the  sun,  which  yesterday  shone  forth  in  mildness, 
is  veiled  with  clouds  ;  cold,  blustering  blows  the  wind,  the 
rain  is  pattering  upon  our  roof,  and  we  are  carried  back  to 
winter  weather;  still  most  of  these   are    April  days,  a 


24-  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

smile  and  then  a  tear ;  the  frogs,  who  with  harsh  notes 
welcomed  the  spring  time,  have  ceased  their  croaking  ; 
hushed  is  the  sweet  warbling  of  a  little  bird  which  had 
perched  near  our  door  occasionally  for  several  days,  and 
poured  forth  his  joy  in  song ;  now  gloom  is  spread  abroad, 
but  yet  a  little  while,  and  I  doubt  not  light  and  beauty 
will  again  mantle  our  land.  The  hand  unseen  which 
works  in  heights  and  depths  will  touch  the  clouds,  and 
they  shall  flee  and  hide  themselves  from  before  the 
majesty  of  the  king  of  day,  who  with  fitful  brilliancy 
will  again  pursue  his  course  in  the  heavens.  "  Who,  oh 
sun,  can  be  companion  of  thy  way,"  or  boast  of  a  bright- 
ness so  unsullied?  for  frail  mortal  man,  when  over- 
shadowed with  affliction's  darkness,  internal  storms  and 
tempests,  seldom  emerges  thus,  in  all  the  splendor  of  light, 
wholly  unspotted,  like  unto  thy  untarnished  disc;  yet 
thou  owest  thy  formation  to  the  same  origin,  even  to  Him 
who  spake  thee  into  existence  perfect,  and  man  subject  to 
imperfection.  But  let  me  not  mourn  for  the  frailty  of 
myself  and  species,  remembering  there  is  a  prize  to  be 
obtained ;  yea,  for  the  promise  is  unalterable  ;  for  those 
who,  like  it,  pursue  their  course  in  the  path  appointed, 
shall  not  hereafter  need  the  light  of  the  sun  by  day,  nor 
the  moon  by  night  ]  then  shall  such  be  spotless  and  per- 
fect.    Love  thy 

Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


5^/i  mo.  22c/,  1822. 
My   Dear  Sally   Ann  : — The    receipt   of  thine   this 
morning  was  buoyant  to  spirits  such  as  Anna's,  rather  apt 
to  sink  in  lowly  feeling  ;    but   my  friend's   memorial  of 


ANN    WILLSON.  25 

unmoved,  unshaken  affection,  was  indeed  true  stimulus  j 
and  could'st  thou  have  seen  the  pleasurable  look  as  1 
thanked  the  kindness  of  her  who  brought  it  me,  thou 
would'st  have  read  in  the  silent,  but  expressive  language 
of  countenance,  the  acceptability  of  the  precious  fold  ;  for 
what  greater  gift  can  friendship  bestow,  than  written 
acknowledgments  of  love  unfeigned. 

I.  K.  visited  us  yesterday,  and  in  gospel  feeling  dipped 
into  sympathy  with  the  widow  and  fatherless.  The 
language  of  encouragement  and  consolation  flowed  from 
her  lips ;  surely  such  seasons  are  favors  from  the  High  and 
Holy  One,  who  thus  condescends  again  to  send  his  mes- 
sengers with  the  words  of  "  Peace  be  unto  you."  When 
because  of  numberless  transgressions,  I  was  looking  for 
judgment,  behold  mercy,  which  promises  still  to  conduct 
me  in  the  paths  of  pleasantness,  which  lead  to  the  land  of 
lasting  rest.  But  alas  !  the  perishable,  yet  tem.pting  things 
of  this  world  lure  from  the  straight  and  narrow  way 
which  alone  conducts  to  happiness.  The  summit  of  per- 
fection here  is,  1  think,  to  be  able  sincerely  to  say,  "  1 
have  overcome  the  world,"  and  am  therefore  redeemed 
from  the  love  of  joys  which  have  an  end.  Oh  me  !  such 
a  state  seems  almost  unattainable. 

It  would  indeed  be  desirable  to  see  Christendom  united, 
of  one  heart  and  one  mind,  all  bowing  together  in  spirit 
before  the  only  true  God,  yet  it  would  doubtless  be  "  such 
a  sight  as  man  saw  never,  such  as  heaven  would  stoop 
down  to  see;"  but  I,  like  thee,  believe  it  matters  not  what 
our  profession  is,  if  there  be  purity  of  heart  and  upright- 
ness of  life.  The  few  poetical  lines  included  in  thine^  I 
was  pleased  with,  and  think  we  may  feel  a  pride  iu  re- 
cognizing such  authors  to  be  f Mow  countrymen. 


26  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

A.  A.  also  tarried  a  while  at  R ,  and  her  doctrine 

and  appearance  were  such  as  indicated  her  to  be  a  true 
follower  of  a  meek  and  lowly  Saviour ;  and  we  may,  I 
think,  justly  rank  her  with  those  whose  age  is  reckoned 
according  to  their  wisdom,  and  not  by  the  number  of  days. 
Would  that  we,  my  friend,  might  prize  these  instructive 
seasons  and  improve  by  them,  lest  at  the  day  of  account 
they  appear  against  us.  Last  week  attended  Shrewsbnry 
quarter  for  the  first  time  since  leaving  Westown.  There  I 
have  a  grandmother  who  numbered  the  years  of  her  life, 
and  told  me  they  were  eighty-eight.     I  suppose  thou  saw 

her  when  at  S .  She  seems  to  be  one  of  those  innocent 

ones,  whom  "  to  live  is  Christ,  and  to  die  is  gain ;"  a  wo- 
man of  a  sweet  cheerful  spirit.  The  travelling  is  now 
delightful,  and  I  enjoyed  the  ride  much  ;  who  could  do 
otherwise  at  a  season  like  this,  when,  to  use  the  poet's 
expression,  ^'  beauty  walks  5"  indeed  there  is  attraction 
for  every  sense,  and  how  can  hearts  formed  to  feel  do 
less  than  enjoy.  Receive  this  as  emblematical  of  the 
true  love  of  thy  constant  Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


7th  mo.  22nd,  1822. 
My  thoughts  like  the  unseen  streams  of  which  the  poet 
speaks,  will  at  last  "  betray  the  secret  of  their  silent 
course."  For  weeks  past  I  have  been  mentally  paying  the 
devoirs  due  to  our  amitie  ;  yea  thou  art  engraven  on  the 
tablet  of  my  heart,  I  trust  with  the  impress  of  love  sincere 
and  unforgetting  ;  then  how  can  I  do  otherwise  than  re- 
member and  oft  turn  affectionately  to  thee,  even  when  my 
hands  and  eyes  are  on  concerns  which  more  immediately 
interest  me.     Often  have  T,  in  the  midst  of  the  bustle  and 


ANN    WILLSON.  27 

business  of  the  day  retired  in  the  recess  of  my  mind,  and 
my  unheard,  unknown  meditations  were  on  far  other 
scenes ;  in  seasons  such  as  these,  I  have  not  unfrequently 
found  thee  to  arise  in  my  remembrance,  and  in  the  excel- 
lency of  friendship  and  purity  of  love,  present  thyself  un- 
changeably before  me. 

Think  not,  my  dear  friend,  that  Anna  is  one  of  those 
happy  ones  that  walk  in  uprightness  of  life  and  conduct, 
and  to  whom  belongs  the  blessing ;  oh  !  would  it  were  so. 
But  though  I  ever  keep  an  eye  of  hope  fixed  upon  the 
land  of  Canaan,  and  desire  some  day  to  be  strengthened  to 
travel  thither,  yet  like  the  Egyptians  of  old,  I  still  love 
ease  and  present  enjoyment  so  well,  as  to  be  willing  to 
abide  in  the  wilderness.  These  reflections  sometimes 
cause  sadness ;  and  in  reading  the  account  of  that  trans- 
gressing people,  I  see  myself  as  'twere  in  a  glass,  and  feel 
that  I  am  indeed  one  of  the  disobedient  children  of  Israel, 
who  grieve  the  meek  and  patient  spirits  of  those  who  are  as 
Moses'  among  us,  and  also  draw  upon  myself  the  displea- 
sure of  the  high  and  holy  Leader  j  but  nature  is  weak, 
and  when  I  seek  good,  evil  is  present,  insomuch  that  I 
exclaim,  the  "spirit  truly  is  willing  but  the  flesh  is  weak." 

I  trust  my  sympathy  is  aroused,  and  my  fellow  feeling 
awakened,  by  the  late  report  of  the  melancholy  situation 
which  those  nearest  and  dearest  to  thee  are  in-  but  I  hope 
He  in  whose  hands  are  the  issues  of  life  will  yet  spare 
those  beloved  ones.  Though  the  thorns  of  life  are  by  no 
means  pleasant,  yet  did  we  gather  only  roses  in  the  path  of 
our  pilgrimage,  should  we  not  forget  that  there  is  another 
and  a  better  world  which  will  soon  wipe  away  the  tears 
of  sorrow,  as  the  coming  of  the  morning  sun  dries  the 
night  dews;  it  is  there    our  eyes  should   be   invariably 


2S  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

fixed,  knowing  that  this  habitation  Is  but  a  transitory 
habitation,  but  that  a  continued  and  eternal  one  ;  and  if 
we  rightly  submit  and  resign  ourselves  to  the  purifying 
baptisms  allotted  for  our  refinement,  we  shall  experience 
a  preparation  for  an  entrance  into  that  goodly  country, 
where  the  flower  of  happiness  blossoms  perpetually,  unwet 
by  grief,  and  untarnished  by  the  vapors  of  affliction. 
Towards  this,  my  dear  friend,  may  our  earnest  hopes  be 
directed. 

I  with  thee,  would  much  rather  enjoy  a  heart-felt  rest, 
in  company  with  those  most  loved,  in  some  neglected  spot, 
even  where  nature  has  been  sparing  of  her  gifts,  than 
separated,  behold  all  which  art  combined  with  nature  can 
present.  The  cause  of  my  silence  thou  divined  aright, 
for  it  did  indeed  proceed  from  want  of  that  all  important 
commodity,  time.  A  cousin  has  been  spending  some  time 
with  us  5  my  dear  mother  has  been  for  a  week  past  very 
unwell,  and  sister  whose  health  is  delicate  has  been  paying 
a  visit  of  more  than  two  weeks  in  N.  Y.  We  hoped  a 
season  of  rest  from  home  cares  and  occupations  would 
invigorate  her  slender  frame ;  and  we  do  think  her  much 
better  since  her  return.  Thus  thou  mayst  see,  that  I  being 
left  to  take  her  share  and  my  own,  besides  attending  to 
my  parent  and  assisting  brother  in  the  store,  found  my 
employments  to  be  many,  and  this  is  the  first  leisure  hour 
in  which  there  was  a  liberty  to  follow  the  guidance  of 
inclination  ;  'tis  therefore  devoted  to  thee.  Accept,  then, 
the  little  offering  which  I  feel  to  be  an  unworthy  return 
for  thy  two  favors,  which  failed  not  to  receive  the  saluta- 
tion of  welcome.  Ten  days  will  soon  pass  away,  at  the 
expiration  of  which  I  shall  expect  to  see  thee  ;  and  though 
I  have  few  delights  to  tempt  thee  with,  yet  the  company 


ANN    WILLSON.  29 

of  our  New  York  friends  will,  I  trust,  be  inducement  suffi- 
cient. In  the  mean  time  receive  the  kind  wishes  of  Anna 
for  the  preservation  of  your  little  family,  and  suffer  not  thy 
spirits  to  sink  beneath  the  pressure  of  sorrow,  remember- 
ing that  thou  thyself  hast  heretofore  told  me  that  "  afflic- 
tions spring  not  from  the  dust  ] "  and  suffer  me  to  add, 
neither  are  they  permitted  for  nought  because  'tis  declared 
that  ^'whomsoever  the  Father  loveth  he  chasteneth." 
Thine,  not  only  in  prosperity,  but  also  in  the  day  of 
adversity.  Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Wi  mo.  9,  1822. 

The  perfectly  spiritless  tone  of  my  mind  tells  me  that 
this  stained  paper  will  not  interest  my  friend,  but  the 
very  feeling  of  love  warrants  me  in  thus  addressing  thee ; 
and  if  this  call  forth  a  congenial  or  affectionate  sensation 
in  thy  breast,  my  S.,  I  shall  in  no  wise  lose  my  reward. 
Offerings,  be  they  ever  so  small,  are  received  in  heaven 
when  they  proceed  from  the  altar  of  a  sincere  heart;  and 
thou,  my  beloved,  will  not,  T  believe,  do  less  than  accept  the 
mite  even  now,  when  I  am  poor,  and  can  say  little  more 
in  substance  than  that  I  love  thee,  and  am  glad  that  your 
dear  relative,  she  who  shares  your  affection  as  a  sister,  is 
again  restored,  long  perhaps  to  bless  and  make  happy  the 
partner  of  her  life. 

I  with  you  can  feel  the  shudder  and  terror-stricken 
dread  which  by  fits  o'erran  your  minds  ;  and  well  would  it 
become  me  with  you  to  present  myself  on  the  bended 
knee  of  spirit,  with  an  heart  abundantly  filled  with  grati- 
tude ;  since  he   who  was  to  me  a  father  and  a  brother  is 

3* 


30  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

once  more  fast  regaining  his  health  ;  a  blessing,  I  feel, 
worthy  of  that  great  and  good  Being  "  who  giveth  liberally 
and  upbraideth  not."  Surely  at  that  season  I  thought  not 
my  own  life  dear  in  comparison  with  his  on  whom  hung 
dependantly  a  mother  and  a  sister  ;  would  that  we,  my 
friend,  might  together  appear  with  an  acknowledgment  for 
the  favors  conferred  unsparingly  upon  us. 

The  alarm  still  continues  in  New  York,  but  our  dear 
Mary  yet  remains  unterrified,  and  has  talked  of  returning  ; 
but  our  more  prudent  counsels  have  hitherto  deterred  her. 
Carriages  containing  emigrants  from  the  infected  city  are 
almost  constantly  passing,  and  I  really  fancy  I  see  sad 
and  sorrowful  countenances  as  their  faces  are  turned 
towards  me.  My  sisters  (for  so  suffer  me  to  call  them) 
have  gone  to  lodge  with  Bertha  to  night,  and  I  am  sensi- 
bly alive  to  this  momentary  loss.  Our  beloved  A. 
intends  leaving  for  P.  day  after  to-morrow;  she  is  such  a 
sweet  spirited  child  we  shall  miss  her  much,  but  since 
thou  art  to  be  the  gainer  I  ought  more  willingly  to  resign 
her ;  do  not  keep  her  long,  for  I  am  one  of  those  selfish 
beings  who  love  to  have  the  chambers  of  my  own  heart 
constantly  lighted  by  the  lamp  of  pleasure. 

Our  rambles  have  been  few  since  thou  left  us.  Just  as 
yesterday's  sun  had  sunk  behind  the  cluster  of  trees  which 
bound  our  western  view,  we  on  with  our  bonnets,  and 
determined  to  enjoy  a  twilight  stroll  along  the  banks  of 
our  waveless  stream.  To  me  'tis  sweet  to  mark  the  fading 
light,  as  day  is  gradually  softening  down  into  the  pale 
shades  of  evening  ;  there  seems  to  be  even  greater  purity 
in  the  cloudless  and  almost  colorless  heaven  when  the 
sun  has  quite  left  the  earth,  and  the  bright  azure  is  lost  in 
unbroken     whiteness.      The   old    bridge   by    which   we 


ANN    WILLSON.  3] 

intended  to  cross  had  been  pulled  down  for  the  purpose  of 
erecting  a  new  one  ;  so  we  were  obliged  to  walk  with  a 
straight-forward  look  o'er  some  planks — a  narrow  foot- 
path, but  it  proved  a  safe  one — there  was  a  little  ceremony 
of  who  should  go  first,  but  soon  all  were  over;  and  the 
bank  gained,  we  seated  ourselves  amid  the  stilly  scene, 
and  gazed  upon  the  glassy  bosom,  on  which  was  impressed 
the  landscape,  in  color  darkened  by  the  shade  of  even.  It 
was  solitude  and  silence ;  no  intruding  eye  or  ear  was 
near,  but  did  not  thou,  my  S.,  come  on  the  wing  of 
memory,  was  not  thy  spirit  hovering  o'er  us ;  may  not  the 
absent  thus  enjoy  communion,  since  place  has  not  power 
to  hold  the  mind  as  well  as  body  ?  But  hours  flit  on  apace, 
and  like  the  light  noiseless  step  of  the  night-shadow, 
m}''  pen  is  hastening  onward  heedlessly,  without  remem- 
bering to  say,  with  feelings  partaking  of  the  calmness  of 
the  hour,  w^e  arose  and  bent  our  way  homeward. 

Farewell,  my  dear  friend,  receive  love  from  our  little 
family  unitedly  5  accept  my  desires  for  thy  prosperity  as 
well  as  my  own,  in  the  best  sense  of  the  word.  Write 
when  thou  hast  a  few  leisure  moments  to  spare  for 

Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W 


10th  mo.  17,  1822. 
My  Dear  S.  : — I  have  stolen  these  few  minutes  from 
the  many  duties  of  this  day,  that  1  might  once  again  pour 
forth  the  breathings  of  a  heart  calculated,  I  trust,  to 
receive  the  clustered  feelings  of  love  and  friendship,  and 
to  mingle  their  emanations  with  kindred  spirits,  which 
philosophers  tell  us  no  sooner  come  within  the  sphere  of 


OZ  FAMILIAR    LETTERS  OF 

each  other's  influence,  than  they  are  nautually  attracted 
and  drawn  together  : — 

"  For  the  heart  like  a  tendril  accustomed  to  cling, 
Let  it  grow  where  it  will,  cannot  flourish  alone, 
But  will  cling  to  the  nearest  and  loveliest  thing 
It  can  twine  with  itself  and  make  closely  its  own." 

I  look  upon  the  days  that  are  past^  and  the  recollection 
thereof  is  sweet;  and  forward  to  the  future,  and  am  wrapt 
in  dreams  of  hope,  which  whisper  that  when  spring 
shall  once    more  mit  her  foot  abroad  and  her    life-givino; 

X  Do 

breath  is  upon  the  earth,  our  little  band  will  again  be 
gathered  in  some  rural  recess,  mid  nature's  wilds.  Alas  ! 
how  vision-like  flitted  by  the  hours  of  our  late  union  ; 
scarcely  had  reality  risen  up  to  acknowledge  them  ere 
they  had  taken  wing — but  though  past  the}^  are  not  gone. 

'*  For  memory  draws  from  delight  ere  it  dies 
An  essence  that  breathes  of  it  many  a  year." 

And  T  may  truly  say  the  events  of  the  past  summer  have 
added  many  pages  to  the  volume  of  my  remembrance ; 
which  will  doubtless  speak  of  these  precious  moments 
when  retrospectively  viev/ed. 

Cousin  M.  observed  the  other  day,  that  to  her  the  plea- 
sures of  memory  greatly  exceeded  those  of  hope,  and  well 
may  they,  for  her  lot  has  been  cast  in  the  land  of  pros- 
perity, and  her  dwelling  place  has  been  beside  the  stream 
of  happiness;  not  so  with  us,  my  friend;  we  have  in  our 
experience  known  the  uncertainty  of  terrestrial  delights; 
we  have  seen  those  we  love  drop  successively,  and  have 
felt  that  it  would  soon  be  our  turn  to  pass  from  time  also  ; 
ideas  of  the  future  have  gathered  thickly  upon  us,  and  our 
hearts  have  been  folded  in  a  covering  of  sadness  ;  yet  we, 
too,  have  known  there  was  a  "joy  in  grief,  when  peace 


ANN    WILLSON. 


33 


dwelt  in  the  breast  of  the  mournful."  At  such  seasons  we 
have  been  ready  to  desire  that  our  portion  might  not  be 
on  the  earth,  but  that  the  possession  of  the  tribe  of  Levi 
might  fall  to  us,  even  the  God  of  Jacob  be  our  inheritance. 

I  have  thought  much  of  dear  E.  since  I  left  you  ;  it 
seems  as  if  the  hand  of  affliction  had  impressed  on  her 
countenance  this  inscription,  I  am  the  clay,  form  and 
fashion  according  to  thy  high  and  holy  will.  As  the  black 
cloud  oft  covers  a  salutary  shower,  so  doubtless  this  severe 
dispensation  conceals  behind  its  dark  veil  a  "  disguised 
blessing,"  for  the  Most  High  walketh  in  the  deeps,  and  his 
intents  and  purposes  who  can  know  ? 

I  really  was  glad  thy  letter  reached  us  not,  before  our 
arrival  at  your  house;  because  thou  art  now  convinced 
that  affection  drew  us,  and  that  it  was  a  free,  voluntary 
visit. 

Would  thou  not  love  to  have  one  ramble  with  us  among 
the  rich  autumnal  scenery  ?  The  wild  winds  of  this  morn- 
ing, which  by  fits  swept  the  yellow  leaves  before  them, 
loudly  spoke  of  nature's  hastening  change,  and  the  time  is 
at  hand  when  the  stripped  branches  will  sigh  mournfully 
over  their  fallen  foliage. 

Thus  it  is  with  thee,  Oh  man  !  and  so  thy  goodliness  de- 
parteth  !  Thou  lookest  out  from  the  tower  of  prosperity 
to-day — to-morrow  a  blast  from  the  desert  comes  and 
scatters  thy  joys  low  on  the  earth. 

Of  all  the  uncommon  things  that  have  occurred  in 
our'village,  cousin  M,  has  doubtless  given  thee  an  account, 
for  we  are  like  two  travellers  going  the  same  road,  conse- 
quently a  history  of  their  journey  will  be  similar. 

And  now,  my  dear  S.,  having  no  news  to  make  this  in- 
teresting to  thee,  I  can  do  little   more  than   recommend 


34  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

such  a  poor  pittance  to  thy  notice  on  the  credit  of  former 
friendship,  and  because  of  the  present  love  feelings  of  its 
author.     Thine,  as  ever,  Anna. 

To  L.  S . 


llth?}io.1^ik,  1825. 
Thanks,  my  dear  Lydia,  for  thy  kind  wishes  for  my 
health  and  happiness  ;  both  are  now  measurably  allotted 
me  :  may  I  be  grateful  therefor  .  Sister  B.  is  num- 
bered with  the  metropolitan  world,  I  therefore  have 
used  a  senior's  privilege  in  the  first  perusal  of  thine, 
and  feel  inclined  also  to  speak  to  thee,  lest  should  I 
wait  her  return,  (which,  I  hope,  will  be  to-morrow,)  I 
should  be  supplanted  and  scarcely  find  a  little  corner 
vacant,  after  she  has  done.  B.  and  myself  frequently 
turn  over  the  pages  of  the  past  summer,  and  among  the 
events  recorded  there,  my  acquaintance  with  thee  is  one 
of  the  most  memorable.  Oh  think  not  thou  of  a  life- 
residence  so  far,  far  away,  but  at  the  proposed  period 
return  to  that  spot  which  owns  thee  for  its  native — for 
surely 

"  Powerful  are  the  ties  that  bind 
The  scenes  of  childhood  to  the  mind." 

And  thy  friends  at  K.  may  then  hope  for  a  little  of 
thy  company  now  and  then,  as  they  pass  along  through 
time.  Art  thou  not  like  the  bee  whose  motto  thou  hast 
chosen,  gathering  honey  from  the  flowers  which  rise  up 
in  the  pathway  before  thee]  Well,  then,  I  would  say, 
enjoy  the  innocent  pleasures  which  fall  to  thy  lot,  ever 
bearing  in  mind  that  better  country,  toward  which  we 
are  all  tending,  and  where  happiness  is  alone  consum- 


ANN    WILLSON. 


35 


mated.  As  for  thy  friend,  she  feels  very  sensible  that 
she  ought  not  to  glory  in  the  earth,  and  the  fascinating 
pleasures  thereof  :  yet  how  is  the  heart  riveted  to  them  ; 
even  though  one  tie  after  another  has  (perhaps  in  mercy) 
been  loosened,  and  they  who  were  the  support  of  my 
youth  laid  low ;  yet  the  plant  of  "  religion  has  not,  I 
fear,  taken  deep  root  even  in  the  soil  watered  with 
tears."  "  Oh  for  a  steadier  walk  with  God,"  a  heart 
redeemed  from  earth !  Think  not  I  am  about  to  give 
counsel;  nay,  verily,  I  have  need  of  applying  to  thee. 
But  since  we  both,  perhaps,  feel  our  utter  inability  to 
make  straight  paths  for  our  feet,  let  us  unitedly  ask 
assistance  whence  alone  true  help  cometh.  Methinks 
it  is  indeed  a  time  in  which  all  Israel  should  flee  to 
their  tent ;  a  safe  and  sure  refuge  from  the  storms  of 
the  world. 

There  is  much  stir  and  great  talk  of  correct  views 
and  sentiments,  yet  these  alone  will  avail  little.  I  fully 
unite  with  Bishop  Taylor  in  the  belief  that  "  a  good  life 
is  the  best  way  to  understand  religion  ;"  then,  indeed, 
would  be  conveyed  to  the  soul  a  peacefulness  which 
bespeaks  a  conscience  void  of  offence. 

How  I  should  have  enjoyed  participation  in  your 
rural  walks,  and  the  social  circle  also,  would  no  doubt 
have  been  agreeable  to  me.  I,  too,  have  an  ear  on 
which  music  steals  with  sweet  or  soothing  sound ;  yet 
the  heart  is  not  always  tuned  to  merry  airs ;  alas ! 
mine  sometimes  ill  accords  with  pleasure's  high  toned 
notes.  This  is  a  season  on  the  scenery  of  which  mine 
eyes  have  gazed  with  interest,  and  I  wonder  not  that 
thou  marvelled  at  the  works  of  Creation.  I  also  have 
taken  a  little  jaunt,  and  the  wood-fringed  hills,  painted 


36  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

with  autumn's  varied  coloring,  and  rising  in  perspective 
as  if  to  the  azure  portals  of  the  world  above,  while  they 
delighted,  astonished  me,  and  might  with  propriety 
have  drawn  forth  the  language,  (while  beholding  the 
mighty  workmanship  of  the  Heavenly  hand,)  what 
indeed  is  man,  a  mere  speck  mid  created  things  !  If,  in 
thy  late  wanderings  thou  hast  found  simplicity  in  her 
native  loveliness  walking  among  the  sons  of  men,  thou 
doubtless  met  her  with  a  cordial  feeling,  if  like  me, 
thou  delightest  in  her  presence,  for  has  not  art  nearly 
elbowed  her  out  of  existence  7  *  *  *  *  * 
Thy  affectionate  friend, 


Anna. 


To  S.  A.  W- 


1825. 

My  Dear  S.  A. — This  is  the  first  time  my  pen  has 
arisen  from  that  deep  and  solemn  silence  which  sorrow 
alone  imposes  upon  the  heart ;  and  even  now  I  shrink, 
as  it  were  from  utterance,  and  feel  a  tremulousness 
which  thou  canst  better  comprehend  than  I  express. 
Alas !  the  pillar  on  which  rested  my  terrestrial  happi- 
ness, is  fallen!  Oh  yes  !  and  Anna  is  an  orphan  in  a 
world  where  the  flowers  of  joy  are  always  fading,  leav- 
ing the  heart  desolate  to  weep  over  the  remembrance  of 
days  that  were,  and  are  not. 

Oh !  how  oft,  when  little  troubles  and  cares  press 
upon  me,  do  I  look  in  vain  for  a  paternal  bosom  on 
which  to  rest.  No,  that  cannot,  cannot  be !  but  cease 
my  murmuring  spirit — perhaps  it  is  in  mercy  meant  to 
call  a  wanderer  home — by  removing  the  idols  of  affec- 
tion to  draw  the  heart  after  them  in  a  peaceful  resting 


ANN    WILLSON.  37 

place,  for  sure  pensive  meditations  of  departed  ones  tend 
to  lead  the  mind  where  they  dwell;  but  shall  I  bring 
thee  to  the  house  of  mourning-,  and  art  thou  willing  to 
drink  of  my  cup  which  indeed  is  mingled  with  bitter- 
ness'? Yes,  methinks  thou  sayest,  I  will  descend  with 
thee  to  the  vale  of  sorrow,  and  my  tears  shall  fall  with 
thine  in  memory  of  that  beloved  one  over  whom  thou 
hast  bent  in  suffering.  Oh  I  friendship,  thou  art  as  a 
ministering  angel  in  the  day  of  adversity  !  Anna  feels 
thy  power  to  solace,  and  yet  shrinks  from  the  healing 
touch,  and  would  fain  experience  a  preparation  to  join 
the  purified  assemblage  of  the  blessed  above.  "  Ah, 
yes,  heavenward  let  my  thoughts  ascend,  heavenward 
may  my  spirit  tend." 

Oh  !  my  friend,  that  we  might  with  one  accord,  and 
full  purpose  of  heart,  journey  toward  that  city  whose 
walls  are  salvation,  and  gates  praise. 

Thou  wilt  doubtless  excuse  the  burst  of  feeling,  for 
otherwise  I  cannot  write.  No,  though  to  those  about 
me  I  appear  cheerful,  and  sometimes  of  a  light  heart, 
yet  little  know  they  the  feeling  that  rests  there  ;  for 
into  the  bosom  of  the  world  I  would  not  pour  my  sor- 
rows. When  I  look  around  and  see  all  nature  coming 
forth  in  beauty,  I  cannot  rise  up  to  rejoice,  because  I 
feel  a  void  which  nothing  earthly  can  replace.  Hast 
thou  never,  when  surrounded  by  what  the  world  calls 
pleasure,  felt  it  to  be  a  tasteless  cup,  and  sickened  at 
the  sight  \  Sensible  am  I  that  many  blessings  yet  re- 
main, and  would  that  I  might  present  therefor  an  offer- 
ing of  thankfulness  ;  but  I  am  sometimes  ready  to  remit 
ardor  in  the  active  scenes  of  life,  and  dwell  as  it  were 
among  the  tombs.     But  this  surely  is  not  right  in  His 

4 


38  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

sight,  whose  is  the  vinej^ard  and  the  laborers,  and  who 
recalls  the  refrom  when  it  secmeth  good  unto  Him.  Let 
me  then  endeavor  to  perform  the  little  part  on  earth 
assigned,  and  steal  away  to  join  the  spirits  of  those 
beloved  ones  who  would,  doubtless,  (if  the  souls  of  the 
departed  are  permitted  to  recognise  each  other,)  extend 
the  arms  of  love,  and  welcome  their  child  to  an  eternally 
blissful  home. 

I  dare  not  oft  indulge  myself  thus,  because  it  has  a 
tendency  to  unfit  me  for  the  duties  I  owe  my  little 
family,  who,  as  they  drop  away,  seem  still  more  near 
and  dear,  and  my  heart  fondly  clings  to  the  remnant 
with  all  the  fervor  of  aflection.  Oh  !  that  they  may  be 
spared  ;  but  I  am  sometimes  ready  to  tremble.  Brother's 
health,  though  much  improved,  is  still  delicate,  and 
sister  B.  is  but  a  slender  child,  and  could  I  bear  "  those 
latter  years,  when  earth,  from  which  each  flower  had 
fled,  was  only  left  a  vale  of  tears'"?  Present  me  in  re- 
membrance to  thy  mother  and  E.  Ah,  that  word  mother^ 
how  oft  it  touches  my  inmost  feeling.  Let  thy  pen 
continue  to  speak  to  me  as  oft  as  time  permits  and  feel- 
ing prompts,  for  thy  communications  are  precious  to 
the  heart  of  Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


2cZ  mo.  23tZ,  1826. 
"  Sweet  is  the  harp  of  prophesy,  too  sweet  to  be 
touched  by  mere  mortal  voice,  and  not  suffer  loss." 
The  truth  of  this,  Anna  sensibly  felt,  and  most  cordially 
united  with  an  observation  of  dear  old  friend  Martin, 
(who  resembling,  raethinks,  the  ancient  fathers  of  the 
church,)  still,  at  times,  stands  forth  among  us.    At  the 


ANiN    WILLSON.  39 

close  of  the  first  sitting  of  Quarterly  Meeting  he  arose, 
saying,  he  desired  the  business  of  that  day  might  be 
transacted  in  the  authority  of  Truth — if  any  speak,  let 
it  be  as  the  oracle  of  God — if  any  minister,  of  the 
ability  which  He  giveth.  And  I  trust  it  was  in  a  good 
degree  the  case,  and  many  were  edified  and  strength- 
ened to  bear  the  burden  of  the  day.  As  for  myself,  I 
cannot  say  that  I  reaped  much,  for  there  are  seasons 
(and  my  friend,  no  doubt,  has  felt  them,)  when,  though 
"Paul  may  plant,  and  Apollos  water,"  yet  vain  is  their 
labor,  unless  He  to  whom  alone  belongs  the  power, 
touches  the  heart  and  prepares  it  to  receive  instruction. 
How  wonderfully  are  we  framed  !  Compound,  inexpli- 
cable! "Man  is  indeed  a  mystery  to  man,"  not  able 
in  his  own  ability  to  become  passive  in  the  potter's 
hand. 

Our  dear  cousins  from  N.  did  not  present  themselves, 
in  consequence  of  influenza.  We  had  several  old 
friends  for  lodgers,  among  whom  was  one  tarrying  as 
at  Jerusalem,  waiting  for  power  from  on  high.  Toward 
him  I  was  particularly  attracted  ;  and  another  who  had 
apparently  been  instructed  in  deep  and  hidden  things. 
He  believed  that  good  would  accrue  from  the  general 
excitement,  and  that  one  would  no  longer  be  looking 
toward  another,  but  each  to  Him  who  alone  is  able  to 
guide  and  direct. 

I  feel  that  we  still  enjoy  a  reciprocation  of  affection, 
which  the  baubles  of  earth  would  vainly  tempt  me  to 
part  with.  I  rejoice  that  thou  art  among  those  who  do 
not  overlook  the  low  and  little  ones,  but  rather  comforts 
and  cherishes  them  with  thy  love :  it  is  to  me  above 
price  ;  may  I  ever  retain  it.     I  have   spent   the   winter 


40  FAMLIAR    LETTERS    OF 

almost  entirely  at  home,  where  my  preserxce  was  need- 
ful, except  now  and  then  to  pass  an  evening  among  our 
villagers.  I  am  now  looking  towards  the  city  of  N. 
wishfully,  for  a  few  days  at  least. 

My  love  to  thy  mother  and  sister;  yours  is  also  a 
little  family,  and  I  doubt  not,  "each  feels  to  each  a 
dearer  self;"  it  really  seems  as  if  such  little  remnants 
of  what  was  once  larger,  are  bound  still  more  closely,  if 
possible,  than  when  the  chain  was  extended.  So  dear 
are  thy  letters  to  me,  that  I  can  scarcely  ever  suffer 
the  last  to  go  farther  from  me  than  my  own  work  box, 
till  another  arrives;  thou  wilt  not,  I  trust,  need  that  I 
should  say,  write  soon  again  to  Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Uhmo.  10th,  1826. 
The  season  of  life,  of  bloom,  and  of  beauty  has  again 
returned  to  us,  and  can  we  do  otherwise  than  rejoice   in 
its  coming  1    Oh  no — for  spring  draws  out  the  freshness  of 
the  soul  and  calls  forth  its  energies. 

^'  And  as  the  spirit  glows  and  burns, 
The  heart  with  fond  affection  turns 
To  those  w^e  love,  though  distant  far." 

Yes,  my  dearS.,  and  on  thee  do  my  thoughts  oft  rest,  pro- 
ducing at  times  a  silent  and  secret  salutation  to  thee-ward; 
and  is  it  the  least  among  Heaven's  favors  that  we  are  thus 
enabled  to  send  the  emanations  of  our  hearts,  or  the 
friendly  greetings  thereof  abroad  in  the  earth.  To  such  an 
one  as  Anna,  who  ahnost  ever  remains  a  quiet  dweller  in 
the  bosom  of  her  own  little  family,  these  mental  rovings 
yield  enjoyment,  and  I  feel  the  portion  of  love  for  those 
far  off  enlarged.     Long  seems  the  time  since  thou  hast 


ANN    WILLSON.  41 

spoken  to  me,  yet  I  impute  it  not  to  forgetfulness,  but 
trust  thou  wilt  ere  Jong  feel  impulse  sufficient  to  move  thy 
pen;  'till  then  let  me  endeavor  patiently  to  wait. 

During  my'tarriance  at  N.,  which  was  much  longer 
than  I  expected,  thou  wert  often  the  theme  of  converse  ; 
and  memory  failed  not  to  recur  to  by-past  times,  when 
grouped  together  the  hours  have  sped  pleasantly,  and 
though  they  are  now  an  "  Auld  lang  syne,"  yet  live  they 
in  remembrance. 

The  city  of  N.  is  generally  the  extent  of  my  wander- 
ings, and  seems  to  be  the  centering  spot  of  happiness  in 
perspective,  once  in  the  annual  round  of  time;  and  though 
I  go  and  come,  perhaps  scarcely  noticed  by  the  world 
around  me,  yet  I  experience  a  heartfelt  delight  in  thus 
mingling  with  the  beloved  ones  of  Rivington  streec,  which 
I  doubt  not  far  surpasses  the  pleasure  of  those  whose  hours 
are  occupied  in  a  round  of  ceremonial  visits,  in  which  (if 
I  may  be  allowed  the  expression)  there  is  no  soul.  I  very 
often  wish  we  dwelt  nearer  these  dear  relatives  ;  it  is  sel- 
dom convenient  for  me  to  absent  myself  long  or  often,  and 
three  weeks  passed  so  soon  away,  as  plainly  told  when  our 
path  was  most  pleasant  we  least  noted  the  flying  moments. 
Hodgson's  travels  we  read  with  interest ;  I  think  him  a 
more  liberal  author  than  most  Englishmen. 

Since  my  return,  we  have  had  quite  a  display  at  a  mar- 
riage celebration.  When  they  were  gathered  in  the  men's 
apartment  (amounting  to  between  twenty  and  thirty)  they 
were  indeed  a  showy  company,  and  methought  appeared 
quite  inconsistent  v/ith  the  command  of  "  let  your  mode- 
ration appear  unto  all  men." 

I  should  rejoice  to  be   numbered  with   the   assembly  of 

next  week;  but  as  that  cannot  be,  it  is  some  consolation  to 

4* 


42  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

remember  that  those  who  stay  by  the  stuff"  receive  also  a 
reward." 

Our  premises  will  soon  put  on  the  beautiful  clothing  of 
the  vernal  season  ;  already  are  they  carpeted  with  lively 
green,  and  swelling  buds  and  opening  leaves  speak  of 
coming  fruit  and  flowers — it  is  a  peculiar  privilege  to 
abide  in  the  country  when  spring  throws  over  it  her  living 
raiment,  "  all  nature  new  and  bursting  into  birth."  Dearly 
I  love  the  simple  pleasures  of  rural  life,  and  dost  thou  not, 
my  friend,  feel  drawn  to  mingle  with  us  personally  in  the 
enjoyment  and  admiration  of  even  so  humble  a  spot  of 
earth  as  this,  for  I  know  thine  eye  delights  sometimes  to 
rest  where  art  is  not  ?  Our  dear  B.  will,  I  suppose,  be  the 
bearer  of  this,  and  much  shall  I  miss  the  child.  My  love 
to  thy  mother  and  sister,  and  kindly  think  of 

Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Hhmo.  nth,  1826. 
Does  not  thine,  my  dear  Sally  Ann,  permit  me  to  hope  I 
shall  receive  thee  ere  long  at  our  own  dwelling  place,  a 
parental  residence  hallowed  to  its  inmates  by  early  re- 
membrances, here  to  taste  once  more  the  cup  of  social 
union  as  in  days  long  gone  7  Yes,  come,  and  with  thee 
bring  dear  E.,  who  has  also  known  the  hand  of  sorrow  to 
have  been  laid  heavily  upon  her ;  and  do  not  such  often 
witness  a  fellow  feeling  beyond  the  utterance  of  sympa- 
thetic language  %  Ah  yes,  time  regardless  of  the  bliss  of 
mortals  is  ever  bearing  away  some  of  our  dearest  treasure, 
some  of  the  closest  of  those  ties  which  love  has  twined 
round  the  human  heart.  Poor  W.  V.,  I  sincerely  pity,  he 
is  left  as  it  were  alone  in  the  earth,  for  Sarah  has  indeed 


ANN    WILLSON.  4-3 

gone  to  the  silent  house  which  closes  all  worldly  pros- 
pects. She  has  passed  hastily  away,  but  I  hope  in  peace. 
Little  did  I  suppose  I  should  see  her  no  more  as  I  sat  by 
her  bedside  the  evening  before  her  departure;  when  I  ap- 
proached she  put  out  her  hand  and  took  mine,  with  a  look 
full  of  expressive  seriousness,  as  if  she  would  say,  the  lamp 
of  life  is  fast  wasting,  and  I  shall  soon  be  in  the  land  of 
spirits  ;  she  faintly  observed,  "  I  am  very  weak."  She 
laid  quietly  and  apparently  without  much  bodily  suifering, 
and  I  thought  might  continue  several  days,  but  I  believe 
her  mind  was  on  that  change  which  she  was  soon  to  expe- 
rience. Alas  I  how  desolate  must  their  habitation  be  to 
him,  whom  she  has  left  to  sorrow  for  her,  and  regret  that 
there  is  no  tie  so  strong  but  may  be  severed  even  in  early 
life.  When  the  aged  are  laid  low,  even  though  we  know 
it  is  the  course  of  nature,  we  cannot  but  mourn,  and  when 
we  see  youth,  like  the  fresh  blossom,  wither,  droop,  and  die 
ere  the  mid-day  sun  looks  upon  it,  we  lament  the  fallen 
flower,  and  breathe  o'er  its  departure  a  deep  sigh.  When 
they  were  gathered  in  the  yard  round  the  little  spot  of 
earth  where  the  relic  of  his  sister  was  about  to  be  deposit- 
ed, G.  addressed  the  assembly  very  pathetically,  desiring 
as  they  beheld  the  uncertainty  of  tarriance  here,  they 
would  cultivate  a  spirit  of  preparation  for  futurity,  &c. 

Surely  it  is  better  to  go  to  the  house  of  mourning  than 
of  feasting,  for  it  brings  us  down  from  all  our  high  places 
into  lowliness  and  humility,  and  causes  us  to  desire  for 
ourselves  that  durable  good  which  no  change  can  effect. 

Loneliness  has  greater  part  of  the  spring  been  my  por- 
tion, for  other  friends  cannot  entirely  supply  the  place  of 
an  absent  and  dearly  loved  sister;  but  summer  brought 
with  it  the  return  of  our  wanderer,  and  restored  our  little 


4-i  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

family  to  its  entire  number,  and  I  rejoice  in  its  completion. 
Receive  love  with  the  well  wishes  of  thy  friend, 

Anna. 

To  her  sister,  soon  after  her  marriage  and  removal  many 
miles  distant. 

4th  mo.  Sth,l821, 

As  thou  sayest,  we  dwell  much  together  in  spirit — yes, 
and  renewedly  pursuaded  I  am,  that  absence  nor  distance 
has  not  the  least  power  to  weaken  that  deep  sisterly 
feeling  which  places  thee  on  the  top  of  my  heart,  there  to 
dwell  immovably.  Truly,  "  the  world  grows  in  bunches, 
like  flower-knots  that  cluster  the  sward,"  and  when 
separation  is  made,  and  a  part  transplanted  to  another  soil 
it  full  oft  checks  for  a  little  season  their  growth  and 
comeliness—  yet  after  a  time  they  gather  strength,  are 
renewed  in  beauty,  and  flourish  more  than  ever  ;  thus  may 
it  be,  for  so  1  trust. 

The  spirit  of  Spring  is  at  length  touching  me,  and  T 
rejoice  to  feel  its  influence  ;  thou  knowest  it  has  always 
been  a  favorite  season  of  mine,  being  the  time  when  life 
and  animation  walk  the  earth.  The  breath  of  zephyrs, 
budding  of  leaves,  and  opening  of  blossoms  are  looked 
upon  with  an  interested  eye,  and  we  feel  that  the  God  of 
nature  hath  bountifully  given  us  to  participate  in  his  own 
essence,  and  we  can  sa}'',  as  in  the  creation,  they  are  all 
good. 

Desolate  indeed  did  this  spot,  which  has  heretofore  been 
so  dear  to  us,  feel,  when  deserted  by  my  little  family,  and 
I  could  livingly  adopt  the  language  of  the  poet, 

"  Home  is  not  in  place,  it  hath  no  bound, 
But  is  a  circling  atmosphere, 
Investins:  all  the  heart  holds  dear ; 


ANN    WILLSON.  45 

A  law  of  strange,  attractive  force 

That  holds  the  feelings  in  their  course." 

But  brother  has  returned  to  p;ladden  it,  and  never  I  think 
was  wanderer  greeted  with  more  hearty  welcome.  Our 
friends  have  proved  themselves  worthy  the  name,  and 
have  generally  called  to  see  and  cheer  the  lone  one;  many 
have  made  kind  inquiries  after  our  far-away  child,  and  I 
am  pleased  to  see  the  interest  our  villagers  appear  to  feel 
in  the  happy  settlement  of  one  of  their  inhabitants,  like 
as  a  family  would  query  after  a  gone-away  one  of  the 
flock.  Thou  needs  not  be  told  thy  letter  was  a  welcome 
visitant,  as  well  as  those  who  bore  it  company  5  and  I 
hope  ere  long  to  feel  sufficiently  in  the  talking  humor  to 
tell  uncle  I.  how  grateful  to  my  heart  were  his  favors,  and 
also  to  speak  of  my  obligations  to  cousin  A.  for  throwing 
her  consolatory  'portion  into  my  cup.  From  our  dear  S.,  too, 
1  received  a  precious  token  of  continued  affection  and 
remembrance  last  week;  cousin  Mary  also  has  spoken,  and 
thinks  of  appearing  soon;  they  both  remembered  thee, 
and  seemed  to  rejoice  in  thy  promised  happiness.  But  to 
enumerate  the  much  thy  friends  say,  as  well  as  their  good 
wishes,  would  take  too  much  room  and  time,  therefore  like 
some  things  in  grammar,  it  must  be  understood.  To  be 
thus  favored  with  remittances  when  we  most  need,  is  truly 
kind,  and  increases  the  debt  two-fold. 

And  now,  my  dear  sister,  let  rae  desire  thee  not  to  feel 
disappointed  in  not  seeing  me  so  soon  as  had  been 
anticipated  ;  for  I  must  at  present  be  satisfied  with  hearing 
reports  of  the  good  land  without  coming  to  see  for  myself. 
I  find  Anna  is  and  will  be  needed  both  in  store  and  house, 
and  should  bring  with  me  a  mind  but  ill  at  ease,  therefore 


46  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

it  is  surely  better  to  tarry  till  a  more  convenient  season  ; 
and  we  may  still  look  upon  the  meeting  moment,  as  one 
of  the  brightest  on  the  page  of  coming  time  ;  there  will, 
I  doubt  not,  be  hours  of  gladness  meted  to  us ;  the  belief 
cheers  and  teaches  me  to  look  on  days  in  perspective, 
hopefully ;  imagery  of  enjoyment  and  pleasure  yet  in 
store,  are  delightful  to  rest  the  eye  upon,  and  are  thrown 
on  the  mind  with  all  the  beauty  of  panoramic  scenery. 
Wings,  save  those  of  fancy,  I  have  not  yet  found  ;  they 
oft  bear  me  to  far-oiF  ones,  but  the  most  lively  sense  of 
personal  presence  with  you  has  been  in  the  stilly  and 
noiseless  visions  of  night,  which  thou  knowest  I  am  oft 
favored  with,  and  love  to  encourage.  'Tis  then,  as  if 
touched  by  magic,  up  rise  our  friends,  in  all  the  vivid 
coloring  of  reality  ;  we  look  upon,  talk  with,  and  enjoy 
their  company  uninterruptedly:  and  it  was  in  this  way  I 
explored  your  premises  last  night,  was  much  pleased  with 
your  house,  and  recollect  ihe  walls  looked  remarkably 
white.  Now  in  this  kind  of  travelling  I  consider  myself 
quite  at  liberty  to  indulge,  because  there  is  no  waste  of 
time  in  measuring  the  long  miles  between  us,  and  when 
we  arise  in  the  morning  to  pursue  the  accustomed  duties 
of  the  day  'tis  often  with  a  pleasant  impress  resting  upon 
the  mind. 

Please  write,  if  it  be  sheets  full,  anything  thou  wishes 
to,  relative  to  housekeeping;  indeed  I  want  to  hear  all 
about  thy  affairs,  and  expect  thou  wilt  get  all  in  prime 
order  against  the  day  of  my  coming ;  save  work  enough 
to  keep  me  out  of  idleness  ;  thou  can  send  a  package  of 
words  by  Yearly  Meeting  Friends. 

Brother  S.  was  quite  unwell  when  he  reached  home,  a 
cold  had  settled   on  his  breast ;  but   with  a  little  nursingr 


ANN    WILLSON.  47 

will,  I  trust,  soon  be  well  again;  intends  going  to  New 
York  as  soon  as  the  storm  is  over ;  his  love,  and  mine  own 
without  measure,  to  our  friends,  and  as  for  brother  I.  and 
thyself,  you  have  it  to  the  full,  and  need  not  that  it  be 
dealt  out  in  portions  to  you.  Tell  the  former  we  should 
gladly  receive  the  effusions  of  his  own  pen.  Farewell  my 
very  dear  sister,  and  know  that  I  am  at  all  times  and  ever 
thine. 

Anna. 

To  A.  A.  T . 

4:tk  mo.  IW?,  1827. 
Yea,  saith  my  heart,  may  affection  bind  us  together  as 
one  family;  under  its  shadow  do  I  delight  to  dwell ;  and 
would  sooner  count  myself  rich  on  its  score  than  in  pos- 
session of  the  miser's  shining  store ;  but  each  has  his 
treasure,  and  in  the  free  land  of  America  all  are 
privileged. 

"  But  %vas  the  come  o'  will  gifts  o'  the  heart 
Ere  reckoned  with  gear  that  is  sauld." 

Oh  I  no,  true  friendship  far  outweighs  the  golden  ore, 
and  to  know  that  we  live  in  the  memory  of  far  distant 
ones  is  to  me  a  cup  of  consolation ;  know  then  thou  hast 
offered  it,  and  receive  Anna's  grateful  acknowledgments. 
And  has  not  the  heart  its  fire-side  too,  and  does  it  not 
gather  there  the  social  circle  "  attuned  to  happy  unison  of 
soul,"  who  light  up  the  smile  of  pleasure,  or  give  the  glow 
of  joy  ?  But,  my  dear  A.,  thy  cousin  possesses  but  little  of 
that  true,  innate  philosophy  which  ever  teaches  content 
and  resignation  in  all  situations,  and  so  to  bear  the  meet- 
ings and  partings  of  life  calmly.     No  ;  when  those  I  love 


48  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

seek  a  new  path  which  leads  their  feet  far  away  from  the 
haunts  of  childhood,  the  sheltering  spot  of  youth,  I  cannot 
but  look  back  upon  the  past,  and  trace  silently  link  after 
link  that  has  loosened  itself  from  the  chain  that  encircles 
us  as  villagers.  Indeed,  who  unmoved  can  behold  desola- 
tion coming  upon  the  greenest  spots  which  their  fancy 
could  picture,  nor  feel  "  a  deep  drawn  sigh  1"  Let,  then, 
Anna  in  true  patriotic  spirit,  take  up  a  lamentation  for 
the  scattering  in  our  borders,  and  the  goings  forth  of  our  in- 
habitants, yea  the  poet  might  arise  and  breathe  the  pathetic 
tale  of  desertion ;  but  I  will  forbear  repining,  and  treasure 
up  events  carefully  in  my  heart,  that  so  they  may  at  sea- 
sons when  retrospectively  looked  upon,  serve  as  "  finger 
posts  for  travelling  the  spirit "  into  the  land  of  gone-by 
time,  which  memory  oft  hallows  and  mantles  with  so 
precious  a  feeling,  that  like  the  gilding  of  a  pleasant 
picture  it  greatly  enhances  its  value. 

That  my  interest  in  all  lucrative  afiliirs  was  for  awhile 
greatly  weakened,  thou  rightly  judged,  for  thought  was 
indeed  following  on  in  the  travellers'  train  )  and  when 
saluted  with,"  much  joy  for  the  newly  acquired  kindred,'-* 
the  sound  fell  upon  the  ear  and  touched  not  the  heart, 
because  I  felt  poverty  in  riches.  Who  that  had  his 
treasures  deposited  in  some  far  distant  corner  of  the  earth, 
so  that  he  could  seldom  look  on,  or  enjoy  it,  could  at 
once  be  persuaded  he  really  possessed  much  :  but  I  am  a 
a  foolish  child,  made  up  of  such  a  mixture  of  feelings,  and 
60  much  alive  to  every  change,  that  if  variety  is  the  spice, 
I  have  a  taste. 

Yearly  Meeting  is  near,  and  I  would  gladly  journey 
South,  yet  cannot  say  that  I  am  much  disappointed  in  not 
doing  so,  for  it  seemed  to  me  we  should  not  meet  so  soon, 


ANJJ    WILLSON.  49 

which  made  the  farewell  so  much  harder  to  be  said.  I 
regret  that  it  cannot  be,  but  am  persuaded  that  for  the 
present  'twould  be  better  for  Anna  to  abide  quietly  in  her 
ain  dwelling  place,  and  look  hopefully  toward  a  more 
convenient  season  for  coming  to  you.  Brother  greatly 
enjoyed  the  little  time  he  spent  with  you,  which 
though  short  to  him,  seemed  long  to  her  he  left  behind. 
T  smilingly  told  him,  if  he  had  remained  a  week  longer  I 
talked  of  shutting  up,  and  gathering  together  some 
needfuls,  flee  away  to  the  city  by  the  sea-side,  but  he 
seemed  not  alarmed. 

Yes,  the  winds  of  spring  bear  with  them  a  kindly 
genial  influence  that  steals  o'er  my  heart  soothingly.  The 
light  green  tracks  upon  the  fields  is  an  evidence  of  his  foot- 
steps; the  opening  of  the  violet  and  snow-drop  tell  his  ap- 
pearing, and  the  lively  carols  of  the  winged  tribe  speak  forth 
his  coming  in  the  voice  of  song.  Anna  feels  its  touch 
upon  her  spirits,  for  who  has  not  experienced  a  renewal  at 
the  fount  of  nature,  which  prepares  for  mankind  an  intel-^ 
lectual  draught  truly  refreshing  to  the  heart. 

But  why,  my  dear  cousin,  any  apologies  for  thine  ?  it  was 
to  me  a  precious  gift,  and  dost  thou  need  I  should  tell, 
thee  so?  No,  for  delightful  as  it  is  to  receive  love's  pledge, 
yet  I  looked  upon  it  as  consolatory  rather  than  as  confirma- 
tory, for  I  trust  our  doubtings  of  mutual  affection  have  an  end. 
Suppress  not  then,  at  any  time,  the  effusions  of  thy  heart 
tome-ward;  but  freely  let  the  stream  of  communication 
flow  ;  in  mine  there  is  ever  a  receptacle.  I  would  gladly 
have  added  one  more  to  the  number  of  guests  at  friend 
E.'s,  could  I  have  girded  on  my  wings  and  flown  away 
to  the  South.    Farewell,  and  receive  our  united  love. 

Anna. 
5 


50  rAMlLIAR    LETTER*    OF 


To  I.  T- 


Rahway,  Ath  mo.  Uth,  1827. 
Gratitude  is  deemed  no  ignoble  emotion  ;    nay  verily, 
'tis  a  lively  sense  which  the  heart  feels  for  received  kind- 
ness ;  let  then  Anna  offer  her  tribute,  for  methinks  it  well 
befits  her.     I  rejoiced  in  being  thus  cared  for,    solitary, 
indeed,  did  the  remnant  of  the  flock  feel,  and  as  was  sup- 
posed, nothing  was  an  impediment  to   the  mental  view. 
You  travelled,   and  I  too.    Ah,  how    wonderfully  is   the 
human  mind  constituted,  that  it  can   thus  loosen  the  reins 
of  imagination   and  send  thoughts  far,  far  away  to  follow 
beloved  ones,  as  it  were,  to  the  utmost  parts  of  the  earth. 
Surely  there  is  ample  provision  made  by  the    bountiful 
Creator  for  us  to  enjoy  all  situations  in  society  ;  there  is  a 
vocal  expression,  which  the  ear  conveys  to  the  heart,  and 
in  solitude  ability  is  given  to  turn  into  the  little  world  of 
mind,  and  in  its  silent  recess  secretly  recall  the  past,  and 
re-enjoy  days  gone  by.  But  when  I  sit  down  to  muse  upon 
late  events,  they   seem  but  as  a  dream  from  which  I  had 
not  yet  fully  awakened;  or  that  the  change  in  our  little 
circle  was  but  the  creatings  of  fancy,  and  w^e  should  soon 
fall  again  into  the  old  path.  The  reality  of  things  have  not 
yet  firmly  fastened  themselves  in  my  view,  and  I  find  I 
need,  as  foreigners  going  into  a  strange  land  would  say, 
to  get  seasoned  to  new  things  before  they  can  be  looked 
upon  in  as  pleasant  a  light  as  the  old ;  but  time  which, 
pioneer-like,  smooths    our    way,  makes  each  step  easier 
and    lighter,  and  I  already  begin   to  witness  such  joyous 
and  blithesome  feelings  as  I  had  for  some  weeks  been  a 
stranger  to.     Indeed,  1  have  wondered,  on  casting  a  back- 
ward look,  that  I  could  stem  the  tide  no  better,  that  the 


ANN    WILLSOX.  51 

little  fortitude  I  was  mistress  of,  should  be  quite  carried 
away  with  the  current ;  but  thus  it  is,  we  scarcely  know 
our  own  weakness  till  proved.  Yes,  that  is  indeed  living 
sympathy,  when  heart  answers  to  heart  in  deep  feeling. 
A  secret  transfusion,  or  silent  intellectual  reciprocation, 
which  is  even  a  stronger  evidence  than  vocal  utterance, 
and  its  assuasive  power,  Anna  has  known.  Andmayl 
not  hope  to  be  occasionally  favored  with  communications 
from  my  new  correspondent  ?  for  very  dear  to  me  would 
be  his  remittances,  though  I  shall  doubtless  be  the  only 
gainer )  but  will  it  not  be  some  inducement,  and  a  measure 
of  reward,  that  thine  speak  to  me  the  language  both  of 
encouragement  and  instruction  ?  In  ancient  time  it  was 
said,  such  as  loved  one  another  spake  often,  and  a  book  of 
remembrance  was  kept;  and  surely  epistles  are  a  proof 
that  the  niemor}''  of  the  distant  is  cherished. 

And  I,  with  thee,  trust  we  not  only  partook  of  tempo- 
ral food,  but  sat  down  also  in  union  of  soul  in  the  spiritual 
banqueting  house,  where  we  felt  the  banner  over  us  was 
indeed  love.  Our  friends  here  forget  you  not ;  many  kind 
enquiries  have  been  made  relative  to  your  safe  arrival,  &c. 

And  in  concluding,  I  forget  not  to  call  thee  uncle,  for  I 
now  have  good  cause,  and  might  without  any  effort,  add 
very  dear.  In  sincerity  of  affection,  therefore  do  I  sub- 
scribe myself  thy  cousin  Ann. 

On  her  way  to  Port  E ,  first  visit. 

Fhiladelphia^  6th  mo.  2d.  1S27. 

Dear  Sister  : — The  2d  of  the  month  came  in  sunnily, 

and  its  brightness  gilded  my  feelings,  which  bounded  forth 

to  the  glad  moment  of  meeting,  fully  believing  the  close  of 

the  day  would  brinj  me  to  thee  ;  but  how  oft  are  we  dis- 


D'-'  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

appointed  in  our  fondest  anticipations.  The  scene  lay 
before  me  as  a  creation  of  enchantment;  for  never,  here- 
tofore, had  I  wound  my  way  along  the  pleasant  shores  of 
the  Raritan  ;  and  not  only  beautiful  to  the  eye,  but  also 
to  the  mind,  was  the  green  bordering  of  the  stream  on 
either  side.  The  water  sparkled  with  the  sunbeams,  and 
on  one  hand  was  a  hill  fringed  with  foliage  ;  the  other,  a 
low  meadowy  plain,  in  which  was  scattered  profusely,  the 
bright  blue  blossoms  of  the  wild  flag ;  while  the  thistle 
in  stateliness  walked  the  glistening  liquid  path  between. 
But  thinkesl  thou  my  thoughts  rested  where  my  eyes 
looked  ?  oh  no,  the  mental  vision  knew  not  obstruction. 
We  met  in  idea  long  before  my  feet  reached  the  shore  ; 
and  when  I  did  arrive,  disappointed  indeed,  was  J,  to  find 
you  had  not  come,  but  I  endeavored  to  preserve  patience 
and  moderation.  The  Sabbath  is  just  passing  away,  and 
yet  I  see  you  not*  When  a  traveller  leaves  his  home  he 
looks  towards  the  point  of  destination,  and  not  only  his 
eye  but  his  thoughts  fasten  there.  So,  my  dear  sister,  my 
haven  is  thy  dwelling  place.  I  have  many  things  to 
say  ;  oh  that  we  may  meet  soon,  very  soon,  for  every 
tttoment  of  separation  counts  one  with  me.  Accept  of 
that  love  which  is  always  flowing  from  the  fountain  of 
Anna's  heart  to  you-ward,  and  present  thereof  to  the 
family  ;  and  trusting  we  shall  f  ery  soon  appear  in  each 
other's  presence,  and  resign  the  channel  of  communica- 
tion to  the  tongue  instead  of  pen,  I  must  say  farewell. 

Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 

Port  Elizabeth,  6th  mo.  20th,  1827. 
Mr  DEAR  S.  A. — Full  oft  hath  the  silent  secret  greeting 
of  Anna's  mind  been  to  thee,  and  had  my  pen  impressed  a 


ANN    WILLSON. 


53 


line  as  frequently  as  my  heart  recorded  a  thought,  I  know 
not  but  thou  wouldst  have  been  quite  wearied  ere  nov/. 
But  to  proceed  to  my  movement  southward :  we  crossed 
the  river  by  moonlight,  a  silvery  path  was  spread  before 
us  glittering  and  bright,  and  our  little  bark  gaily  and 
lightly  bent  its  way  over  the  face  of  the  waters,  broken 
only  by  the  plashing  oar.  The  broad  arch  of  heaven  was 
more  than  meet  for  kingly  canopy  ;  and  Anna  looked 
around,  above,  below,  and  felt  ''  how  beautiful  was  night.'? 
A  sound  of  melody  rose  from  the  shore  before  us,  which 
might  have  been  fancied  a  salutation  of  welcome;  the  oars- 
men paused  for  a  moment,  and  left  our  little  vessel  to 
glide  silently  with  the  current  while  they  drank  in  the 
tuneful  sound  ;  for  even  manly  hearts  are  touched  with 
harmonious  strains  which  irresistibly  throw  their  spell 
upon  us,  frequently  tending  to  quiet,  soothe  and  still  an 
agitated  mind — false  rest  perhaps  thou'lt  say — ah  yes.  but 
too  well  do  some  of  us  love  its  charm.  But  reaching  land, 
we  were  soon  whirled  away  to  Friend  Ward's,  of  whom 
thou  mayest  have  heard  ;  suffice  it  for  me  to  say,  with  his 
fine  garden  I  was  perfectly  delighted.  At  the  entrance 
stood  "  Marmaduke  "  and  "  Mary,"  two  evergreens  of 
ancient  look,  tall  but  a  little  russet,  like  age  in  stateliness. 
These  it  seems  were  planted  by  order  of,  and  took  their 
names  from  the  original  proprietors.  There  too  was  the 
holly  in  all  its  vernal  pride,  the  scented  honeysuckle, 
whose  fragrance  bespoke  its  resting  place  even  at  evening 
hour  ;  this  aspired  to  the  house  top,  and  would  I  doubt  not 
been  a  treat  to  Eliza's  eyes,  for  so  large  and  elegant  a  one 
I  never  before  saw.  Multifloras  were  clambering  the 
door-way  with  their  delicate  clustering  blossoms  hanging 
in  rich  festoons.     Here   too  was  the  Palmetto  Eglantine 


n4  tamtliah  letters  of 

and  Scottish  rose,  and  many  a  plant  beautiful  and  rare ;  on 
all  I  gazed  delightedly,  and  wished  that  I  could  have  given 
thee  if  it  had  been  only  a  talismanic  view,  for  it  seemed 
as  the  creation  of  enchantment  when  looked  upon  under 
the  broad  eye  of  Luna. 

I  kept  my  chamber  window  raised  long  after  the  hush 
of  retirement  was  spread  around  me.  Next  morning  say- 
ing an  adieu  to  our  hospitable  entertainers,  we  steered 
Portward  through  sand  and  pine  wood,  which,  however, 
•Was  at  times  beautifully  relieved  by  magnolia  with  dark 
varnished  leaf  and  snowy  blossom,  and  the  cup-shaped 
laurel  was  scattered  profusely,  so  that  our  ride  was  not  so 
tedious  as  I  had  anticipated.  Wherever  we  wander  we 
find  much  to  excite  and  arrest  the  eye,  the  ear,  the  mind. 
Yes,  the  footstep  of  Deity  is  apparent  in  the  uttermost 
parts  of  the  earth.  Thus  thinks  thy  friend,  and  while  she 
feels  het  heart  expand,  its  feelings  enlarge,  and  utterance 
according  to  the  small  ability  given,  toward  my  dear  Sally 
Ann  it  tends,  desiring  for  her  also  the  blessing  of  enjoy- 
ment ;  for  surely  He  who  hath  spread  before  us  the  feast 
of  intellect,  hath  also  said,  of  all  mayest  thou  eat  save  the 
tree  of  iniquity — yea,  partake  and  give  thanks;  and  though 
here  nature  has  not  thrown  blossoms  and  beauty  with  waste- 
ful hand,  yet  has  she  planted  verdure  and  poured  forth 
streams;  and  dear  to  the  reflective  mind  is  the  breezy 
waving  of  trees  and  plaintive  murmurs  of  the  rivulet ;  yes 
there  is  melody  in  them  that  touches  and  entrances  the 
heafti 

Delightful  to  me  has  been  the  company  and  gospel 
labors  of  A.  P.,  who  desired  us  to  be  steadfast,  immoveable, 
always  abounding  in  the  work  of  the  Lord,  which  was 
that  of  restoration  and  redemption,  because  in  His  presence 


ANN    WILL  SON.  55 

were  fulness  of  joy  and  rivers  of  pleasure.  He  spoke  also 
of  the  stream  which  Ezekiel  saw  coming  at  first  only  to 
the  ankles,  but  as  he  bathed  it  rose  higher  and  higher,  till 
it  became  a  fountain  in  which  he  could  swim  ;  alluding 
very  beautifully  to  the  soul.  Oh  !  how  oft  when  in  com- 
pany with  ministering  spirits  do  we  feel  almost  persuaded 
to  cast  down  our  earthly  crowns,  and  divested  of  all  clogs 
ascend  with  these  devoted  ones  Heavenward ;  desiring  to 
wash  in  such  living  waters  as  make  clean  the  heart.  But 
alas!  the  senses  are  like  gravitating  force,  ever  drawing  us 
back  to  perishable  pleasures  and  pursuits  ',  and  we  feel  that 
though  the  spirit  is  willing,  the  flesh  truly  is  weak.  I 
would,  my  dear  friend,  that  Hike  thee  had  nobly  resolved 
no  longer  to  lean  downward,  but  mount  upward  where 
alone  true  happiness  is  to  be  known.  Here  to  be  sure  are 
m.any  pleasant  shadows  of  good  things,  but  the  imperish- 
able substance  lies  above.  The  meeting  here  is  very  small; 
the  house  stands  at  the  entrance  of  a  thin  wood,  a  solitary 
quiet  spot,  conveying  to  the  mind  almost  hallowed  feel- 
ings, and  perhaps  tending  to  exclude  from  the  heart  that 
wandering  and  roving  which  some  of  us  oft  know  in 
crowded  assemblies,  where  appears  richness  of  attire, 
fashion  and  gaiety.  To  me  it  is  pleasant  to  retreat,  to 
gather  into  some  little  nook,  with  a  remnant  who  are  con- 
cerned to  worship  in  the  beauty  of  simplicity. 

Thou,  my  dear  Sally  Ann,  as  well  as  myself  loves  at 
times  the  silent  spots  of  the  earth — a  withdrawing  from 
the  din  and  bustle  of  the  city  :  for  surely  "  activity  and 
noise  "  (how  necessary  soever  it  be  that  we  mingle  in  the 
busy  scenes  of  life)  "  remind  us  only  of  this  world,  but 
silence  and  repose  lead  us  to  a  world  to  come.''  I  would 
that  I  was  more  concerned  to  retire,  not  from  society,  but 


5G  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

from  the  love  of  terrestial  allurements,  not  suffering  the 
affections  to  settle,  to  fix  below  their  proper  centre.  Oh 
for  the  help  of  my  friend!  Yes,  let  us  stimulate  and  stir 
up  one  another  to  every  good  word  and  work.  My  dear 
sister  seems  indeed  blessed,  and  I  cannot  but  rejoice,  yet 
remember  also  the  poet's  language,  "  beware  of  what  earth 
calls  happiness."  I  suppose  he  must  have  feared  a  rest- 
ing in  it,  and  forgetting  that  the  day  cometh  when  all 
fountains  of  wordly  gladness  will  be  dried  up,  and  the 
voice  of  joy  and  sound  of  earthly  enjoyment  will  no  longer 
be  pleasant  to  the  ear.  Still  affection  is  of  celestial  nature, 
and  may,  methinks,  be  reasonably  indulged  ;  for  if 

<'  Devotion  lifts  the  mind  above  ; 

Does  not  Heaven  itself  descend  in  love  ?" 

Bella's  concerns  have  occupied  much  of  my  time,  so 
that  I  have  yet  been  nowhere  save  at  evening.  Uncle 
Isaac  is  a  right  good  gallant,  and  with  him  I  had  a  star- 
light stroll  down  "  Love  Lane."  I  did  not  find  the  name 
had  any  power  over  the  heart,  but  the  willowed  pathway 
perhaps  did  lead  to  sentimental  feelings  and  tuneful 
thoughts.  Here  too  has  the  destroyer's  footsteps  been  ; 
yea  a  little  cottage  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  street,  over 
which  the  willows  wave  and  bend,  fit  emblem  for  a 
widow's  dwelling,  there  is  she  in  loneliness,  save  those 
pledges  of  a  parent's  love,  the  hope,  the  stay,  the  promise 
of  their  future  days.  But  mark  the  contrast ;  here  is  sister 
A.,  and  her  dearer  self,  in  all  the  glow  and  buoyancy  of 
life,  while  there  the  mourner  sits  in  solitude  and  sorrow, 
perhaps  dwelling  on  the  mysterious  ways  of  Providence, 
and  feeling  that 

"  Love  and  Hope  and  Beauty's  bloom 
Are  blossoms  gathered  from  the  tomb, 
There's  nothins:  lasts  but  Heaven." 


ANN    WILL50N.  57 

Present  me  in  affectionate  remembrance  to  your  dear 
little  family.  Your  kindness  was  sensibly  felt  and  enjoyed 
during  my  tarriance  with  you,  and  my  dear  friend  let  me 
desire  thee  to  write  very  soon,  provided  thou  feels  well 
enough  to  do  so,  and  reprove  or  correct  wherever  and 
whenever  thou  seest  occasion  ]  it  would  be  a  freedom 
worthy  of  the  friendship  we  profess,  and  I  trust  possess — 
yea  let  not  thy  pen  spare,  for  it  would  be  a  more  sure  mark 
of  thy  love  for 

Anna. 

to  her  brother  and  sister,  i.  and  a.  l.  t. 

9th  mo.  ^th,  1827. 
While  the  world  lay  before  us  in  brightness,  and  the 
beamings  of  joy  were  upon  our  path,  we  rejoiced  in  be- 
lieving ourselves  affectionately  remembered,  yea  among 
the  gathered  ones  of  love  and  memory  ;  but  when  the 
shadows  of  sorrow  fall  upon  our  way,  and  the  future 
looks  dark  and  unlovely,  'tis  then  the  heart  most  seeks 
for,  and  delights  in  the  consolatory  voice  of  Friendship, 
and  its  kind  and  soothing  accents  sink  deep.  At  such 
seasons  the  cheering  sounds  of  the  social  circle  play 
upon  the  ear  without  entering  ;  they  are  like  untimely 
notes  of  lively  music,  which  accord  not  with  the  inner 
feelings  ;  yet  are  we  not  sad  ;  oh  no,  for  I  know  not 
when  I,  at  least,  have  felt  greater  need  of  collecting  the 
energies  of  the  mind,  of  calling  together  its  intellectual 
resources,  and  witnessing  a  happiness  above  the  vicissi- 
tudes of  time.  There  is  in  nature  much  to  be  inno- 
cently enjoyed,  and  to  prevent  me  from  resting  too  long 
on  the  cloud.  All  things  in  creation  were  pronounced 
good,  and  all  are  intended  to  redound  to  the  glory  of 


5S  FA.MILIAE.    LETTERS    OF 

their  Author  ;  but  when  the  eye  hath  seen,  and  the  ear 
hath  drunk  the  beautiful  harmony  of  the  world,  it  does 
but  humble  the  imperfect  mind,  and  lean  the  broken 
spirit  upon  God. 

I  fully  believe,  did  we  endeavor  to  walk  in  innocency 
and  uprightness,  every  thing  that  was  permitted  to 
befall  us  would  but  tend  to  our  advantage  ;  we  should 
see  the  unsubstantial  nature  of  all  earthly  rests,  and 
however  many  joyous  and  pleasant  (I  had  almost  said 
heavenly)  places  on  earth,  all  would  fall  far  short  of 
satisfying  the  soul.  Surely  there  is  a  safe  covert  from 
the  storm  and  shelter  from  the  tempest — to  that  may 
we  flee.  As  time  passes  on,  the  world  draws  nearer  to 
our  eyes,  and  appears  more  and  more  clearly  in  its  real 
coloring,  and  we  find  it  not  a  foundation  on  which  to 
build  the  edifice  of  happiness,  but  only  a  pleasant  road 
for  the  w^ayfarcr,  in  which  sufficient  is  everywhere 
spread  for  his  comfort  and  convenience  in  his  home- 
ward pilgrimage  ;  not  to  the  intent  that  we  should  forget 
whither  we  are  bound,  and  so  rest  satisfied  with  an  un- 
certain habitation  by  the  way-side,  but  that  we  might 
refresh  and  gird  up  ourselves  anew  for  the  continuation 
of  the  journey,  while  yet  possessing  the  vigor  and 
strength  of  youth.  A.  W. 

TO  I.  T.,  JR.,   SOON    AFTER    THE    DEATH    OF     HER    BROTHER 
SAMUEL. 

10th  mo.  Uth,  1827. 

Mr  VERY  DE'AR  BROTHER  I. — Though  my  thoughts  are 

much  abstracted,  and  I   oft   retire  from   the    living   to 

muse  upon  the   dead,  in  the  inner  covert  of  the   spirit, 

where  all  is  solitary  and  lone,  save  some  precious  feel- 


A.N.\    WILLSOX. 


59 


ings  of  that  love  which  is  above  the  vicissitudes  of  the 
world,  yet  can  I  not  be  insensible  to  the  absent.  Oh  no  ; 
"  the  fire-side  owns  a  vacant  seat,"  and  we  feel  how 
very  dear  to  us  is  the  far  away  one  of  our  little  sor- 
rowing family,  and  to  thee  the  affection  of  a  sister's 
heart  is  and  will  be  transferred.  Silently  did  I  follow 
thy  homeward  way,  hoping  the  pleasant  shelter  of  the 
Port  was  gained  ere  the  strength  of  the  storm,  and 
when  ready  to  return,  truly  w^elcome  shall  be  thy  com- 
ing. 

Divers  of  our  townsfolk  have  called  and  sat  awhile  in 
token  of  sympathetic  feeling;  but  to  Anna  society  is 
solitude;  and  yet  the  kindness  of  our  friends  is  not  un- 
acknowledged, though  words  express  it  not.  Friend 
M.  touchingly  addressed  the  young  men  in  our  morning 
meeting,  referring  to  the  recent  proof  of  the  uncertainty 
of  life,  saying  he  had  been  very  deeply  affected  by  the 
loss  of  one  who  was  not  only  an  ornament  to  society', 
but  also  to  the  village.  Ah  !  methought,  virtue  needs 
no  memorial — "  his  name  alone  his  monument  shall  be  ;" 
but  I  will  cease,  lest  I  should  not  only  gather  gloom 
upon  my  own  heart,  but  throw  sadness  upon  thine. 
Present  me  in  most  affectionate  remembrance  to  the 
loved  ones  of  home. 

Thy  strongly  attached  sister,  A. 

To  L.  S . 


P.  E.,  nth  mo.  20th,  1827. 
My  dear  Lydia  will  excuse  Anna  from  much  speak- 
ing, since  she  is  doubtless  sensible  it  must  unloose  the 


60  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

fount  of  feeling,  and  restore  but  too  strongly  the  picture 
of  the  past  j  and  yet  how  can  I  hold  my  peace — 'tis  not  a 
quietness  of  heart,  for  surely  I  have  looked  toward  thee 
from  my  silent  retreat,  and  could  the  blessing  of  a  little 
one,  frail  as  myself,  avail  aught,  thou  wouldst  be  happy. 
But  happiness^  my  friend,  how  does  that  word  press 
upon  my  heart  j  emphatically^  after  this  wise  :  happiness, 
mortal,  is  only  to  be  found  in  piety  and  virtue,  and  they 
are  paths  to  the  realms  of  blessedness  j  thither  then 
bend  thy  footsteps,  thither  tend  thy  thoughts,  that  thou, 
too,  may  one  day  mingle  with  the  pure  inhabitants  of 
heaven.  A  shining  example  has  been  before  thee — 
thine  eyes  have  beheld  it — be  thou  animated  ;  for  mark 
the  upright,  his  end  is  peace  ;  yes,  my  dear  Lydia,  this 
is  my  firm  belief,  and  could  I  have  supposed  myself 
equally  prepared  for  entrance  into  the  unchangeable 
abodes  of  eternity,  I  could  have  wished  that,  as  together 
we  had  lived,  so  we  might  still  have  been  undivided, 
inhabited  the  same  narrow  resting  place,  gathered  in 
peace  to  the  silent  dwelling,  low  in  earth  5  but  I  remem- 
bered the  errors  of  life  and  misspent  existence,  and  be- 
lieved I  was  in  mercy  spared.  But  lonely  indeed  would 
feel  the  lengthened  out  voyage,  did  not  a  brother's  and 
a  sister's  love  yet  anchor  me  to  earth.  Oh  yes  !  on  the 
bosom  of  affection  and  kindness,  am  I  still  nursed. 
Thus  has  an  Omniscient  Protector  willed.  I  feel  the 
evidence  of  that  Providence,  which  has  meted  out  to 
me  these  blessings,  beyond  the  utterance  of  words. 
Truly,  He  who  noticeth  the  fall  of  sparrows,  careth  also 
for  the  little  ones  of  his  family,  and  seeketh  to  reclaim, 
when  he  suffereth  them  to  be  blown  from  the  spot  of 
nativity,  the  soil  which  reared  them,  and  transplanteth 


ANN    WILLSON. 


61 


in  pleasant  places,  refreshing  at  times  with  the  incomes 
of  his  own  presence,  then  looking  for  tht^  fruits  of  re- 
pentance and  amendment.  Oh  !  may  it  never  be  said, 
"hew  it  down,  it  but  cumbereth  the  ground."  Write  to 
irie,  my  beloved  L.,  whenever  and  whatever  thy  feelings 
dictate,  in  the  full  assurance  that  thy  friendship  is 
among  the  treasured  things  of  Anna's  heart — a  heart 
that  covets  for  itself  the  esteem  of  virtuous  minds,  and 
the  stimulation  and  strength  of  their  counsel.  His  was 
a  soul  that  had  overcome  much  of  the  frailty  of  earth, 
in  laying  hold  on  the  hopes  of  heaven,  and  his  earnest 
desire  to  the  end  was,  to  trust  in  the  all-sustaining, 
never  failing  arm,  saying,  "  he  knew  we  were  in  the 
hands  of  mercy,  and  though  he  sensibly  felt  how  solemn 
a  thing  was  the  step  to  eternity — a  going  hence  to  be 
seen  of  men  no  more — yet  he  saw  nothing  in  his  waj^, 
nought  troubled  him."  Truly  the  sun  of  the  practical 
Christian  goeth  down  in  brightness  ;  there  is  calmness 
in  the  twilight,  which  it  leaves  upon  witnessing  spirit, 
and  we  are  ready  to  exclaim 

"  Who  well  improve  life's  shortest  day, 

Will  scarce  regret  its  setting  ray." 
What  then  is  sentiment,  what  opinion — why  look  to 
the  professional  garments  with  which  man  arrayeth 
himself]  Rather  let  us  commune  with  our  own  hearts 
and  be  still,  knowing  that  there  the  law  is  written,  the 
Divine  will  manifested;  knowing  also  that  the  voice  of 
Truth  hath  said,  to  such  as  are  of  a  contrite  and  pure 
heart,  will  I  incline.  May  we  then  give  thanks  and 
take  courage,  heeding  not  the  contention  of  this  world, 
in  which  it  is  declared  we  shall  have  trouble,  but  re- 
member the  consoling  addition  of,  in  that  to  come,  life 

6 


62  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

everlasting.  Continue  then,  my  dear  friend,  to  stand  still, 
till  thou  see  the  salvation  of  God  ;  for  I  assuredly  believe, 
as  our  whole  dependence  is  cast  upon  Him,  he  will  open  a 
path  where  there  appears  to  be  none;  the  mountains  will 
be  removed,  and  the  hills  skip,  and  a  holy  high  way  be  cast 
up.  To  Him  who  is  at  once  the  shield,  helmet,  guide, 
guard,  and  Avay-mark  of  his  people,  every  where,  let  me 
commend  thee  with  mine  own  self.  When  we  again  meet, 
as  I  trust  we  shall  some  time,  Anna  may  feel  more  able 
to  tell  thee  little  particulars,  though  there  is  not  much 
of  a  nature  to  interest  thee,  as  the  illness  was  short,  and 
the  uttered  expressions  were  few ;  but  peace  on  earth, 
love  and  good  will  to  man,  had,  I  believe  I  may  safely 
say,  been  throughout  life,  the  breathing  language  of  his 
soul.     I  must,  for  the  present,  say  farewell. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Port  £.,  1st  mo.  23d,  1828. 
Judge  not  of  thy  friend  by  her  quietness,  for  full  sure 
I  am  it  has  not  been  for  want  of  the  stimulating  im- 
pulse of  love.  Oh  no  !  Couldst  thou  have  known  what 
was  passing  in  Anna's  heart  in  this  long  interim, 
thou  wouldst  have  found  thoughts  of  thy  own  self  often 
there.  But  if  shade  be  upon  me,  should  I  throw  it  o'er 
thee  ?  Hast  thou  not  had  thy  portion  of  afflictive  bap- 
tisms, and  should  I  seek  to  make  thee  sharer  of  minel — 
and  yet  I  know  not  how  longer  to  keep  silence,  remem- 
bering, too,  that  I  am  privileged  to  make  thy  bosom  a 
sister's  resting  place.  I  know  thou  art  touched 
with  a  feeling  of  my  sorrows,  and  fain  wouldst  alleviate 
them.  Receive  then  this  scrawl,  mournful  as  its  lan- 
guage may  be,  as  expressive  of  my  gratitude.  And 
though  the  windings  of  life's  path  have  fed  me  from  the 


ANN    WILLSON, 


C3 


green  beauties  of  childhood,  the  pleasant  lawn  of  youth, 
and  the  vine-mantled  dwelling  so  dear  to  me,  where 
once  a  little  family  were  blest  with  all  their  "stock  and 
store,"  yet  I  assuredly  believe  there  is  One  who,  when 
we  are  bereaved,  forsaken  and  desolate,  will  look  upon, 
protect,  guide,  guard  and  prepare  a  path  for  feeble  feet. 
Oh  that  I  might  be  found  presenting  return  offerings, 
and  the  pure  oblations  of  thankfulness.  I  have  recol- 
lected instructively  the  heading  of  a  piece  in  my  album 
by  dear  Eliza,  viz.,  ''Cheerfulness  is  an  acceptable 
hymn  to  the  Deity  ;"  and  sometimes  when  the  drooping 
mind  feels  its  sorrows  press  heavily,  this  has  measura- 
bly renewed  energy  and  effort.  Ah,  would  that  I  might 
indeed  cling  to  Him  who  is  able  to  "  set  my  feet  upon 
a  rock,  and  establish  my  goings."  Well  I  know  He 
who  clothes  the  lily  and  feeds  even  ravens,  will  also 
care  for  a  wandering  orphan ;  and  do  thou,  my 
friend,  when  petitioning  preservation  for  thyself,  desire 
also  my  escape  from  captivity,  from  the  bondage  and 
thraldom  of  a  corrupt  heart. 

Home,  my  dear  S.,  how  that  word  touches  my  inmost 
feelings,  and  rests  in  the  depths  of  the  heart.  Where  is 
now  that  dear  spot,  if  not  where  my  little  family  are 
gathered,  I  trust,  in  peacel 

"  Where'er  they  are  is  home  to  me, 
And  hojne  without  them,  can  it  5e?" 

Time  passes  not  without  marring  the  joys  of  life,  and 
still  he  walks  unheeding  on,  regardless  of  the  many 
blossoms  of  happiness,  crushed  by  his  step  ;  some  more 
fleeting  days,  and  the  remnant  of  a  once  happy  group 
will  also  pass  the  bounds  of  earth — and  oh,  saith  my 
soul,  may  they  together   find  a  home  in  heaven,  where 


C4  FAMlLTAPw    LETTERS    OF 

love's  unbroken  chain  ever  circles  all.  But  while  yet 
we  linger  here,  how  soothing  is  the  voice  of  friendship. 
Let  then  its  accents  often  fall  upo^i  my  ear,  for  sure  'tis 
more  acceptable  and  of  sweeter  sound  than  the  tones  of 
a  stringed  instrument.  And  now,  my  dear  Sally  Ann, 
seeing  that  mental  communion  is  so  pleasant,  is  not 
personal  presence  truly  desirable  1  May  I  not  then 
hope  when  the  sunny  season  shall  call  forth  leaf,  bud 
and  blossom,  robing  even  our  southern  land  in  beauty, 
thou  wilt  come  and  see  where  Anna  now  dwells,  and 
where  rests  her  pilgrim  feet  ] 

As  a  New  Year's  gift,  we  have  received  a  lovely  little 
emblem  of  infant  innocence,  whom  we  call  Rebecca,*  a 
title  dear  to  thee  as  well  as  me.  Accept  from  Bella 
and  her  other  self  affectionate  remembrance ;  they  with 
me  would  welcome  thee.  I  have  indeed  found  a  plea- 
sant anchorage,  and  lacknot  kindness  and  attention,  nor 
anything  to  render  my  situation  agreeable.  But  oh, 
my  friend,  I  cannot  cease  to  remember  what  time  has 
swept  from  the  world  away  ;  and  yet,  can  1  do  other- 
wise than  acknowledge  His  goodness,  whose  hand 
unseen  works  in  the  deeps,  and  "from  seeming  evil 
still  educes  good."  I  have  still  a  brother^  not  only  in 
word,  but  deed,  for  truly  he  acts  a  brother's  part ;  and 
had  he  been  of  our  own  household  from  childhood,  I 
know  not  that  he  could  have  made  me  feel  myself  more 
a  sister.  Last  first  day  the  sun  looked  out  in  mildness, 
and  I  rejoiced  so  much  in  his  bright  beamings,  (after  so 
many  dark  days,)  that  I  was  indulged  with  a  delightful 
walk  along  a  willowed  pathway,  through  the  stripped 
branches  of  which  the  light  breeze  played.  He  too  is  a 
*  The  name  of  her  mother. 


ANN    WILLSON.  65 

lover  of  nature  and  nature's  ever  varying  forms.  We 
were  interested  in  examining  the  close  covert  which 
the  catterpillars  had  made  themselves ;  they  were 
wound  up  in  a  downy  nest,  safely  shielded  from  wintry 
storm  and  wind.  How  wonderful  is  the  teaching  of 
instinct!  After  tarrying  awhile  at  the  house  of  a 
friend,  and  partaking  of  the  fruit  of  the  land,  we  said 
our  adieu,  and  returned  just  as  the  sun  was  sinking  in 
cloudless  glory  from  earth  away.  This  is  the  first  time 
T  have  been  further  than  the  meeting  house.  From 
New  York  I  received  intelligence  last  Seventh  day  ex- 
pressive of  health.  Receive  much  love,  and  present 
thereof  to  your  dear  little  family,  and  forget  not  tidings 
from  thee  always  rejoice  the  heart  of  thy  friend 

A. 

To  M.  S . 


Port  Elizabeth,  3c?  mo.  20th,  1828. 
My  dear  Cousin, — These  sunny  days  thou  thinkest 
tell  us  spring  is  here.  Yes,  true  it  is,  that  nature's 
varying  face  is  the  season's  measurement.  And  when 
we  behold  the  mild  blue  canopy  above,  (heaven's  own 
curtain,)  the  fields  gathering  verdure,  and  gardens 
flowering,  we  should,  without  man's  voice  or  inventions, 
know  that  it  was  indeed  spring  time — a  portion  of  the 
year  which  touches  with  deep  influence  most  hearts. 
It  is  peculiarly  loved  by  me,  for  who  can  look  abroad 
o'er  creation,  see  leaf,  bud  and  blossom,  nor  feel  the 
spirit  rise  to  greet  them  ;  but  believest  thou  it  speaks  to 
Anna  in  the  same  joyful  language  as  in  days  gone  by? 
Ah!  no — it  but  slight  semblance  seems  of  that  fadeless 
land    where   blight    ne'er    falls,    but   undying    verdure 

6* 


6G  familiaPc  letters  of 

clothes  it  all.  Ah  !  my  dear  cousin,  memory  but  turns 
a  few  pages  of  my  life,  and  tells  me  who  taught  the 
vine  to  clamber,  the  flower  to  raise  its  head,  propped  up 
the  slender  stem,  (alas!  I  feel  thus  frail  and  need  such 
stay  and  aid,  and  once  thou  knowest  I  had  it,)  gave  to 
each  shrub  the  needful  trimming  and  joy'd  to  see  them 
flourish.  I,  by  his  side,  looked  and  rejoiced,  and  "pro- 
nounced the  task  well  done."  Thus  sat  we  in  the 
shade  of  our  own  dear  home  with  genial  hearts — pleased 
to  see  our  grounds  o'erspread  with  bloom  and  beauty. 
But  these  robes  of  loveliness  leave  the  land,  and  man 
follows;  why  then  suffer  our  hearts  to  fix  and  fasten  on 
aught  that's  perishable.  But  I  am  weak,  else  I  should 
surely  shake  off  earth's  yoke  and  strive  to  mate  my 
soul  with  his  who  dwells  in  the  far-off  world ;  for  might 
not  purity,  e'en  while  here,  be  joined  in  close  affinity 
to  Heaven  1  Thou  who  knowest — ah,  knew  us  both — 
wilt  find  a  reason  for  this  gush  and  thus  excuse  It. 
Oh,  yes — and  I  will  cease  to  tax  thy  sympathy,  after 
assuring  thee,  my  much  loved  cousin,  that  to  see  you 
would  indeed  be  gladness.  *  #  *  #  * 

This  is  Fifth  day,  and  I  shall  soon  be  wending  my 
way  to  our  little  meeting,  where  all  is  quietness  and 
peace — no  jarring,  no  discords  there.  Better  for  a  few 
to  dwell  together  in  harmony,  than  to  live  with  the 
multitude  in  strife.  Adieu,  my  beloved  cousin,  and 
forget  not  to  write  to,  as  well  as  think  of,  your  distant 

An^'A. 

to  her  brother  and  sister. 

Philadelphia^  ^th  mo.,  1828. 
Dearly  Beloveds  — "  Out  of  sight,  out  of  mind,"  al- 


AXN    WILLSON.  G7 

though  proverbial,  is  surely,  in  my  case  at  least,  untrue; 
for  were  I  to  travel  to  the  uttermost  parts  of  this  wide 
world,  I  should  most  certainly  bear  with  me  unceasing 
and  unlessening  affection  for  a  brother  and  sister  who 
are  as  the  core  of  my  heart  or  apple  of  my  eye.  Many 
a  backward  look  and  many  a  lingering  thought  were 
cast  toward  you  as  we  moderately  journeyed  on. 
Dined  at  M.,  and  being  much  refreshed  both  in  frame 
and  spirits,  proceeded  onward  quite  comfortably,  though 
much  annoyed  with  dust,  and  reached  friend  Ward's 
about  sunset.  The  old  man  himself  opened  the  gate 
for  us,  and  at  the  same  time  queried  jestingly  what 
brought  us  there  1  To  know  if  thou  had  done  sowing 
oats,  was  uncle  I.'s  reply  5  while  G.  dismounting  from 
the  fence,  where  he  had  seated  himself  to  rest  after  the 
toils  of  the  day,  shouldered  the  hoe  and  bent  his  steps 
towards  the  castle.  Aaron  followed,  and  we  were  soon 
enjoying  the  rites  of  hospitality  and  kindness.  Even- 
ing waned  away,  for  time  steals  unnoted  when  in  the 
cheery  social  circle. 

A  letter  from  Elisha  Dawson  was  read,  to  the  com- 
fort and  perhaps  instruction  of  some  of  us.  He  is  to 
be  at  the  annual  gathering.  Now  all  to  their  allotted 
resting  places.  Anna  gladly  sought  her  pillow,  and 
had  thought  of  her  own  little  boudoir  long  before  the 
motion  for  retirement.  Arose  next  morn  renewed  in 
spirits  and  strength,  and  delighted  to  feast  my  eye  with 
the  garden's  vivid  verdure.  Though  but  little  bloom, 
yet  all  was  green  and  beautiful,  and  I  particularly  ad- 
mired some  infant  Arborvitoc,  the  leaves  of  which  would 
greatly  ornament  the  mantle  if  mingled  with  our  few 
lonely  flowers.     But  adieu  to  these,  we  seek  the  city. 


68  FAMILlAPc    LETTERS    OF 

My  friend  Sally  Ann  received  me  with  cordiality  and 
affection,  and  endeavors  as  much  as  in  her  lies  to  spread 
around  her  guest  a  pleasant  home  feeling,  which  sets 
me  quite  at  ease. 

Attended  Cherry  Street  Meeting  on  First-day,  to  which 
came  the  Patriarch  from  Jericho,  who  elucidated  and 
simplified  religion,  making  it  clearly  appear  that  it  con- 
sisted not  in  belief  or  opinion,  but  in  entire  obedience  to 
manifestations  of  the  heart.  He  addressed  the  youth  in  a 
pathetic  and  touching  manner,  desiring  them  not  to  follow 
the  vanities  and  follies  of  life,  but  nobly  resign  themselves 
to  the  death  of  the  cross,  &c.  The  house  was  crowded, 
and  it  was  thought  by  some,  as  many  went  away  for  want 
of  room  as  gained  entrance. 

Second-day.  The  snow  is  fast  falling,  mingled  with 
rain-drops,  and  whirled  every  way  by  the  whistling  wind. 
I  went  up  stairs  to  prepare  myself  to  go  out,  but  found  the 
storm  too  violent  to  leave  a  good  shelter  and  comfortable 
fire-side,  and  am  now  sitting  with  friend  W.  and  S.  A. 
talking  as  well  as  writing.  ♦  ^  * 

Third-day.  Was  at  this  day's  meeting  to  great  satisfac- 
tion. There  was  a  precious  covering  of  unity  and  fellow- 
ship which  seemed  to  bind  soul  to  soul,  and  as  if  the  over- 
shadowings  of  Heaven  itself  were  upon  us.  One  friend 
observed  that  it  appeared  like  a  great  feeding  place,  where 
many  flocked  to  be  fed  with  the  good  word  of  life.  Oh  .' 
how  rejoiced  I  should  be  to  spend  this  eve  with  you,  for  I 
should  in  peace-meal  way  try  to  deal  out  to  you  the  frag- 
ments I  have  gathered  in  heart  and  memor3^  You 
deserve  credit,  and  I  desire  your  encouragement,  for 
endeavoring  to  keep  up  your  little  mid-week  gathering, 
and  friend   Jones'   testimony    must    I    think   have    been 


ANX    WILLSOX. 


69 


acceptable,  for  it  seemed  convincing  that  even  the  few 
were  owned  and  comforted  together.  •       *         *         * 

To  L.  S . 


Philadelphia,  ^ih  mo.  1S2S. 
My  Dear  Lydia  : — Sincerely  sorry  was  I  not  to  find 
thee  amono;  the  o-athered  at  the  grreat  Sanhedrim,  for  I  ear- 

DO  o 

nestly  coveted  a  little  communion,  that  so  we  might 
sweetly  and  consolingly  have  blended  thought  and  feeling, 
thereby  making  each  other's  hearts  a  little  sanctorum  of 
friendship,  where  the  refreshing  stream  of  affectionate  in- 
tercourse might  flow  full  and  freely.  But  1  have  heard 
the  cause  of  thy  non-appearance,  and  therefore  could  not 
desire  thee  to  leave  the  parental  roof  and  couch-of  mater- 
nal suffering.  Nay,  verily.  Thou  hast  I  doubt  not  found 
and  will  yet  find  sweet  peace  and  enjoyment  of  the  purest 
kind,  thus  to  smooth  the  pillow  of  age  and  infirmity,  and 
brighten  as  much  as  in  thee  lies  the  declining  path  of 
a  mother's  life.  Present  to  her  Anna's  love  and  kindly 
remembrance,  and  mayest  thou,  my  dear  Lydia,  be  the 
blessing  of  her  latter  days.  How  wonderful  are  the  dispen- 
sations of  the  Universal  Parent,  who  works  and  wills  ac- 
cording to  his  own  good  pleasure,  gives  and  takes  as  he 
seeth  meet ;  and  who  shall  call  in  question  His  unerring 
wisdom  I  Doubtless  we  know  not  what  is  best  for  our- 
selves, and  I  have  said  in  my  heart  "  give  me  not  up  to 
mine  own  will,  merciful  Providence." 

The  sittings  of  this  Yearly  Meeting  have  thus  far  been 
large,  and  I  trust  many  have  felt  the  overshadowing  of 
divine  love,  and  been  in  measure  "  fed  with  the  good  word 
of  life."     I  think  I  may    say  that  there  has  been  to  my 


1(0  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

mind  the  evidence  of  the  Eternal  Presence  in  which  is  life 
and  fulness  of  jo}'' ;  and  as  a  friend  observed,  many 
among  us,  perhaps,  have  been  carried  as  it  were  upon  the 
mountain  of  transfiguration,  and  could  but  acknowledge  it 
was  good  for  us  to  be  there.  But  there  is  great  need, 
when  we  descend  again  into  the  cares  and  concerns  of  the 
world,  to  be  watchful.  I  desire  not  to  be  a  sectarian,  to 
walk  in  the  steps  of  heat  and  party  zeal,  yet  wherever  I 
feel  the  evidence  of  the  Master's  presence,  there  do  I  wish 
to  be ;  and  trust  wherever  and  in  whomsoever  I  feel  the 
love  of  God  to  be  abundant,  my  heart  will  go  forth  to  greet 
it.  The  particulars  of  this  week  thou  wilt  doubtless  hear, 
therefore  I  will  not  enlarge. 

Let  me  hope  to  see  thee  at  the  Port  ere  the  warm 
season  passes,  where  thou  wilt  be  cordially  received  by 
those  who  have  ever  loved  thee  and  continue  so  to  do. 

I  am  now  on  my  way  to  the  land  of  my  childhood, — 
the  place  where  youth  has  been  pleasantly  and  happily 
spent,  and  where  rest  the  relics  of  a  once  happy  little 
family.  Oh  I  my  friend,  how  awakened  is  memory  I  how 
all  will  remind  of  those  who  once  were,  but  are  not.  I 
had  thought  I  could  not  go,  but  many  of  my  friends  think 
it  the  best  time,  while  things  remain  pretty  much  in  their 
old  state  ;  and  this  visit  once  over,  the  keenness  will  be 
passed.  Our  friends  and  relatives  I  am  anxious  to  see. 
Wilt  thou  not  write  to  me  while  there  1  I  intend  return- 
ing after  the  N.  Y.  Yearly  Meeting.  Brother  I.,  sister 
B.  and  their  little  Rebecca,  were  well,  except  colds. 
It  is  with  regret  I  separate  myself  for  a  little  season  ; 
for  nowhere  do  I  so  much  rejoice  to  be,  as  with  these 
beloveds. 


ANN     WILLSON.  71 

Please  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  this  soon.     Company 
is  waiting,  and  I  must  reluctantly  conclude. 

Affectionately,  thy  friend, 

Ann. 

to  her  brother  and  sister. 

Rahway,  Ath  mo.  28th,  1828. 
To  you,  beloved  ones,  thought  is  so  often  turned,  that 
the  pen  must  follow  its  wake.  You  were  doubtless  in- 
formed of  the  comfortable  conclusion  of  the  great  gather- 
ing; and  that  its  close  was  with  the  voice  of  thanksgiving 
and  praise  ;  after  which  the  people  dispersed,  and  pre- 
pared each  one  to  flee  to  his  own  tent.  At  six  next  morn- 
ing, we  were  launched  upon  the  watery  world,  and  I 
amused  myself  with  the  movements  round,  being  but  little 
disposed  to  converse.  But  knots  of  folks  were  grouped 
here  and  there  earnestly  engaged  on  temporals  or  spiri- 
tuals, as  best  became  their  mood  of  mind.  We  came  the 
Bordentown  route,  which  gave  me  an  opportunity  of  see- 
ing Buonaparte's  pleasure  grounds,  in  which  expectation 
was  not  near  realized.  Plastered  houses  are  scattered 
here  and  there  about  the  premises,  which  T  suppose  are 
inhabited,  so  that  he  still  has  an  opportunity  to  exercise 
his  kingly  authority.  I  admired  most  a  tower-like  build- 
ing which  was  embosomed  in  trees,  raising  its  head 
above,  and  seemed  &s  if  it  might  contain  the  princely 
frame  of  the  great  man  himself,  but  was  informed  it  was 
the  observatory.  The  whole  of  this  road  was  new  to 
Anna ;  and  though  the  wind  blew  chill,  and  mud  splashed, 
yet  kept  we  the  curtain  raised  nearly  all  the  time.  The 
villages  were  poor  looking,  and  none  of  them  I  thought  a 
credit  to  the  abiders,  save  Cranberry.     The  roads  were 


72  familjar  letters^  or 

very  bad,  and  none  of  our  crew  were  sorry,  1  believe,  to 
exchange  the  jog  and  jolt  for  a  comfortable  seat  in  the 
splendid  parlor  of  the  "  York,"  which  is  an  elegant  boat. 
Judge  my  sensations  as  we  neared  the  neighborhood  of 
relations  and  friends, 

"Each  whirl  of  the  wheel,  each  step  drew  me  nearer 
The  home  of  my  childhood;  every  object  grew  dearer." 

With  cousins  John  and-Phebe  spent  greater  part  of  the 
Sabbath  very  pleasantly.  My  spirits  were  refreshed^  and 
heart  comforted  with  his  truly  Christian  and  Quaker-like 
conduct  and  conversation,  joined  to  kindness  and  affec- 
tion, and  I  cannot  but  believe  him  to  be  one  of  the  living 
stones  of  which  the  church  is  built.  Next  day  turned  our 
faces  mountain  ward,  and  found  cousin  Deborah's  habita- 
tion a  pleasant  resting  place  ;  she  continues  still  to  train 
her  little  family  in  the  way  they  should  go,  and  will 
doubtless  see  the  fruit  of  her  labors.  Attended  Monthly 
Meeting  on  Fourth  day,  where  my  heart  was  deeply 
dipped  into  sympathy  and  fellow  feeling  with  the  little 
band  who  were  there  associated.  Business  was  conducted 
harmoniousl}^,  and  I  thought  had  I  now  been  a  dweller 
with  them,  I  could  have  submitted  to  the  clerkship  cheer- 
fully, for  the  sake  of  usefulness,  and  relieving  in  a  little 
measure  older  sisters  who  were  burden  bearers  and  were 
still  obliged  to  stand  in  the  front  of  the  battle.  You  were 
far  from  being  forgotten  by  the  friends  of  Lang  Sjme,  and 
Anna  willingly  answered  many  a  query.  And  now 
what  shall  I  say  ?  for  emotions  have  been  too  powerful  at 
times  for  utterance.  Thou  knowest,  my  beloved  sister, 
that  dear  to  us  are  the  scenes  of  youth,  pleasant  the  play- 
ground of  childhood,  and  still  deeper  and  more  strongly 
attached  are  our  hearts  to  theit  spot  where  parents  and  a 


ANN    WILLSON.  73 

brother  made  a  world  complete  ;   and  as  our  years  in- 
creased, their  life  and  love  went  on.     I  have  not  yet 
found  my  strength  sufficient  to  set  foot  there.     Oh  no ! 
I  shrink  therefrom,  for  to  me  it  is  a  house  without  inhabi- 
tant, though  every  shrub  and  plant  are  memory's  touch- 
stone.    Divers  have  called  to  see  me,  but  their  congratu- 
lations carry  a  mournful  feeling  to  this  heart,  thou  can'st 
more  easily  conceive  than  I  express.     Oh !  how  oft  have 
kindred  and   friends  wished  for  your  presence  also.     I 
spent  a  few  minutes  last  eve  with  our  old  patriarch,  friend 
Martin.     He  was  very  poorly  ;  spoke  of  our  dear  brother ; 
said  he  loved  him,  and  should  soon  be  with  him.     Indeed 
his  memory  seems  embalmed,  and  is  like  precious  incense 
continually  arising.     Oh  that  my  day  may  close  as  bright- 
ly.   I  write  by  the  fireside  where  my  kindred  are  talking, 
with  one  ear  turned  to  them,  and  as  I  feel  the  movement, 
now  and  then  put  in  a  word.     Just  imagine  thou  art  with 
us.     I  wish  thou  could  be.     Love  unbounded  to  all. 

Anna. 

to  the  same. 

Green  Brook,  bth  mo.  bth,  1828. 
Now,  when  the  voice  of  song  is  poured  forth  abun- 
dantly, and  perfume  walks  the  air,  and  all  seems  joy 
and  gladness  for  the  bright  appearing  of  the  vernal  sun 
after  so  many  days  of  cloud  and  storm,  would  you,  my 
beloveds,  like  to  know  how  fares  the  traveller,  and 
where  her  feet  have  found  a  resting  spot  1  if  so,  fancy 
you  see  a  thin  antique  little  being  like  myself  circled  by 
a  group  of  children,  to  whom,  mayhap,  in  childish  style, 
she  is  reading  some  simple  tale  suited  to  the  infantile 
understanding,  or  listening  to  their  prattle  with  inte- 

7 


74  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

rested  ear,  applauding  or  reproving  as  tlie  talk  requires, 
delighted  with  their  gambols  on  the  green,  and  in  my 
heart  acknowledging  that  childhood  is  truly  a  happy 
season.  I  left  R.  last  week,  and  am  now  tarrying  at  the 
neat  and  pleasant  cottage  of  cousin  D.,  whither  I  have 
brought  to  pass  a  day  or  two  little  M.  Marsh,  who  thou 
knows,  sister  Bell,  was  always  a  favorite  of  mine.  In- 
deed I  begin  to  feel  tired  of  whirling  about,  and  am  not 
sorry  to  make  good  my  retreat  to  the  mountain  j  and 
yet  I  was  pleased  with  the  sound  of  welcome  back,  and 
the  affectionate  and  kindly  greeting  of  relatives,  friends 
and  neighbors,  and  the  general  expression  of  the  ac- 
ceptability of  my  appearance  among  them.  It  is  the 
nature  of  human  kind  to  desire  a  place  in  the  records 
of  memory.  The  fountain  of  my  heart  has  been  un- 
sealed, and  every  little  rill  of  feeling  poured  forth  its 
tribute.  *  *  *  Last  Fourth  day  morning  I  felt  my  mind 
drawn  toward  that  dear  spot  which  my  heart  still  calls 
home,  though  divested  of  all  that  can  make  it  such. 
And  think  what  were  Anna's  emotions  as  she  looked 
upon  the  young  leaves  and  opening  buds,  and  saw  the 
birds  flitting  among  the  clambering  vines  as  in  days 
gone,  when  a  brother's  culturing  hand  turned  each 
straggling  branch.  Feeling  burst  the  bounds  of  con- 
cealment, and  I  was  obliged  to  leave  without  being  able 
to  walk  over  the  premises,  or  visit  the  various  apart- 
ments of  the  house.  Oh!  my  sister,  canst  thou  enter 
the  depths  of  my  heart  and  read  the  thoughts  which 
rest  there  1  Truly  feeling  hath  no  fellow!  *  *  *  After 
tea  I  was  asked  to  walk  to  the  upper  end  of  town  and 
see  the  improvement  on  the  hill  side;  and  to  be  sure  I 
was  delighted  to  find,  instead  of  an  old  shackling  house, 


ANN    WILLSON.  75 

almost  on  the  tip  over,  a  neat  little  cottage  with  green 
shutters,  enclosed  with  white  railing,  the  yard  covered 
with  a  thick  sod  of  living  green  and  planted  with  trees 
and  shrubbery.  It  seemed  to  have  risen  up  as  with 
talismanic  touch,  and  was  quite  deserving,  I  thought, 
of  its  goodly  inhabitant,  the  minister's  widow,  (Robe- 
son.) I  felt  half  inclined  to  enter,  make  myself  known, 
and  congratulate  her  upon  her  pleasant  dwelling  place, 
but  refrained,  having  such  a  host  with  me. 

The  willows  still  bend  over  the  stream,  and  almost 
dip  their  pendant  branches  in  its  untroubled  waters; 
the  long  fringy  weeds  border  its  way  ;  and  at  the  idle 
hour  of  twilight  the  villagers  still  seek  its  banks  to  wile 
away  the  gloamin.  Thou  knowest  we  all  loved  the 
water  course,  and  when  inclined  to  stray,  generally  bent 
our  steps  thither.  Ere  we  returned,  C.  V.  joined  us; 
he,  like  many  other  adventurers,  is,  it  seems,  looking 
for  the  good  land,  the  temporal,  as  well  as  spiritual 
Canaan,  and  was  about  setting  off  for  Ohio. 

This  is  a  fine  day,  and  everything  here  is  robed  in 
verdure  and  beauty;  and  I  feel  as  if  your  presence  was 
almost  all  that  is  wanting  to  complete  the  enjoyment  of 
time's  onward  march.  Our  relatives  at  R.  desired  their 
love  might  be  given  you,  to  which  is  added  cousin  D.'s 
and  R.'s — not  only  to  you,  but  also  to  our  dear  next 
door  folks,  whom  I  very  oft  think  of  and  hope  soon  to 
see.     Write  soon  to  your  own  sister,  A. 

TO  HER   SISTEK   A.  L.  T . 


Kew  York,  5th  mo  ,  2St/i,  1828. 
Memorable  indeed   have  been  the  events  of  the  pre- 


76  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

sent  week!     Though  dissension  and  separation  are  on 
its  records,  yet  sufficient  for  the  time    has  been  the 
strength  afforded,  and  the  ever-blessed  truth  prevailed  ; 
not  that  there  is  any  cause  for  glorying  in  the  flesh,  but 
that  spirit  has  been   evidenced  unto  spirit,  and  because 
of  a  ministering  unto  the  witness  in  many  hearts,  and 
a  clear  conviction  that    the  Lord  continues  to  teach  his 
people  himself;  therefore  we  need  not  look  to  those  that 
have  gone  before,  neither  to  the   expounders  of  the  law 
in  the  present  day — remembering  what  was  said  to  one 
formerly  who  remained  near  the  sepulchre — "he  is  risen 
and  goeth  before  you."     This  sheet  will  not  admit  of 
particulars;  besides  I  have  left  company  below   stairs 
and   stole  away  to   speak  a  few  words,  but  cannot  for- 
bear telling  you  how  much  I  did  wish  your  participa- 
tion in  the  instructive  communications  of  this  morning; 
for  I  fully  believe  with  J.  F.  that  the  everlasting  gospel 
was  preached  with  life  and  with  power,  which  he  said 
he   felt  himself  bound   to  acknowledge  to  a  large  and 
intensely   interested  assembly.      T.   Wetherald   spoke 
long  and  in  a  wonderful  manner,  insomuch  that  I  thought 
I  never  heatd   so   great  a   sermon.     His  mind  seemed 
enlarged,  and,  as  it  were,  the  very  windows  of  heaven 
opened  before  him  ;  after  which  the  dear  old  patriarch — 
as  a  father  beholds  the  upright  steppings  of  his  son  and 
rejoices — could  not  but  approbate  and  add  his  testimony 
thereto.     After   this  M.  P.   kneeled  and    desired   that 
words  might  be  dissolved  in  power,  as  I  thought   in 
reality  they   were.     And  now,  my  dear    sister,  I  must 
tell  thee  that  my  mind  is  very  often  with  you  dwellers 
at  the  Port.     Little  R.'s  innocent  face  I  thought  I  saw 
last  night,  and  I  rejoiced  once  more  to  fold  her  in  my 


ANN    WILLSON.  77 

arms.  And  thou  knowest,  ah!  full  well  ihou  dost,  that 
on  thee  a  sister's  fond  affections  are ;  and  I  often  think 
that  life  itself  would  not  be  coveted,  were  it  not  for  you 
and  this  precious  little  bud.  Cousin  R.  unites  her  love 
abundantly  with  my  own,  and  ere  long  we  shall,  I  trust, 
both  appear  and  give  evidence  thereto,  for  the  feet  of 
my  mind  seem  already  turned  homeward.  Affection- 
ately, my  dear  sister,  farewell. 

TO    HER    FAMILY. 

mw  York,  6th  mo.  2d,  1828. 
Having  been  refreshed  animated  and  renewed,  not  only 
spiritually,  but  also  in  social  aff'ection,  I  desire,  as  much 
as  may  be,  that  the  rays  of  instruction,  of  interest  and  en- 
joyment shed  upon  me,  may  be  reflected  upon  you  j  and  I 
rejoice  that  the  human  mind  is  capacitated  to  care  for 
more  than  itself;  and  as  we  are  all  but  links  of  the  one 
chain,  or  rather  all  members  of  the  one  great  family,  when 
privileged  to  be  fed  with  the  multitude,  we  feel  the  com- 
mand to  be  still  imperative,  "gather  up  the  fragments  ;" 
'tis  the  end  that  crowns  all,  and  the  evening  sacrifice  has 
indeed  equalled  the  morning  song.  Meeting  closed  after 
one  sitting  on  Sixth  day,  under  a  very  precious  covering 
of  quietness,  in  which  every  spirit  seemed  so  absorbed  that 
I  think  it  might  truly  have  been  said  "  the  Lord  reigneth," 
during  which  a  voice  arose  with,  "  permit  us  to  present 
unto  thee  thanksgiving  and  praise,  and  oh  enable  Thy 
might  and  power  so  to  rise  into  dominion  that  the  shout 
of  a  king  be  heard  in  our  camp,"  &c.  I  with  Edward 
Hicks  believe  that  the  spirit  of  Elijah  is  resting  on  the 
Elishas,  that  a  succession  of  standard  bearers  will  continue, 
upon  whom  the  mantle  of  right  judgment  and  true  pro- 


78  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

phecy  will  still  repose.  Much  excellent  counsel  has  been 
administered.  They  who  are  bending  under  infirmity  and 
the  weight  of  years  have  been  strengthened,  the  middle 
aged  stimulated  and  excited  to  greater  watchfulness  and 
diligence,  and  those  in  the  earlier  walks  of  life  exhorted, 
reproved  and  encouraged,  that  so  the  whole  heritage  might 
travel  Zionward  together.  A  very  comfortable  account 
of  Indian  improvements  was  read,  with  an  interesting 
communication  from  Red  Jacket  (who  now  sleeps  with  his 
fathers) — the  Senecas  also  wish  to  be  taken  under  Friends' 
care. 

A  brief  but  interesting  memoir  of  the  life  and  latter  end 
of  T.  Hawkshurst  was  produced;  a  memorial  of  Elias  Hicks 
was  also  brought  forward.  During  the  last  sitting  Elisha 
Dawson  visited  us  acceptably,  saying  the  salutation  of  his 
heart  was  "  are  all  well  at  home  ?"  then  queried  after  the 
spiritual  welfare  very  tenderly  and  touchingly.  Truly  we 
have  had  the  early  and  the  latter  rain — may  there  be  fruit 
worthy  of  all  this  culture.     Your  ever  affectionate  sister 

Anna. 

To    L.  S . 


Port  Elizabeth,  Sth  mo.  4tth,  1828. 
Does  my  dear  Lydia  suppose,  in  this  long  unbroken 
silence,  love  hath  waxed  weaker  ?  and  because  far  distant 
and  out  of  sight  thou  wert  unthought  of?  believe  it  not,  for 
verily  it  hath  not  been  thus.  Week  after  week,  and 
almost  day  after  day,  have  I  said  to  myself,  I  will  write, 
and  meant  to  do  so  while  in  N.,  but  the  unsettlement  of 
things  there,  together  with  a  review  of  my  native  land, 
and  the  sight  and  company  of  many  of  its  dear  dwellers, 
almost  unnerved  me,  and  hung  my  heart  with  sackcloth 


ANN    WILLSON.  79 

tapestry — bringing  livingly  before  me  past  scenes,  the 
days  of  joy  and  sorrow  and  the  feelings  attendant  Ihereon. 
The  opening  rose,  clambering  vine,  and  blossoming  shrub, 
all,  all  were  touchstones  of  memory,  and  I  turned  from 
them  with  anguish  of  spirit,  to  me  they  no  longer  con- 
veyed pleasure.  Our  own  beloved  mansion,  though  in- 
habited by  those  1  regard  and  esteem,  was  to  my  feelings 
lone  and  desolate,  and  I  left  it,  after  being  in  only  one 
room,  with  much  heaviness  of  heart.  Under  the  pressure 
of  sad  remembrances  I  sometimes  think  I  must  sink,  but 
He  who  seeth  the  secrets  of  the  troubled  soul,  sometimes 
speaketh  peace  to  the  agitated  billows  and  lays  each  wave 
to  rest  ;  and  oh  !  continue 

"  God  of  might 
To  throw  thy  shield  around  this  erring  breast, 
That  'mid  the  tangled  and  illusive  paths 
Of  this  brief  pilgrimage,  I  may  not  lose 
All  this  world's  peace  and  all  the  rest  of  that 
Which  hath  no  shadows." 

It  is  very  truly  said,  that  feeling  hath  no  fellow,  yet 
hearts  there  are  which  know  a  sympathy — such  I  trust  are 
ours — and  if  sorrow  has  watered  the  soil,  it  has  doubtless 
been  in  mercy  and  with  intent  to  our  instruction.  May 
we  then  endeavor  to  profit  by  it,  considering  all  these 
light  afflictions,  teachings  of  Best  Wisdom,  who  would  fain 
school  us  for  the  skies.  Times  there  are  when  this  ap- 
pears a  pleasant  world  to  me,  and  all  around  is  beauty, 
love  and  harmony,  but  'tis  then  the  thoughts  are  lifted 
high  above  earth's  little  troubles,  as  from  an  eminence  we 
look  on  all  below  and  scarcely  see  asperities. 

But,  my  dear  Lydia,  let  us  no  longer  dwell  upon  the 
past,  but,  leaving  the  things  that  are  behind,  talk  of  the  reali- 


80  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

ties  of  the  present  time.  Well  then,  I  must  tell  thee  our  cou- 
sin's arrival  was  cause  of  gladness,  and  our  hearts  were  re- 
freshed and  enlivened  by  social  and  affectionate  communion, 
and  we  should  have  rejoiced,  could  thou  have  joined 
them  in  this  visit  to  the  Port  folks.  But  who  knows 
what  a  day  may  bring  forth.  Ah !  how  little  can  we 
calculate  on  the  morrow ;  for  the  day  after  their  arrival, 
cousin  A.  was  confined  to  the  chamber  by  indisposition. 
Soon  after  her  recovery,  she,  aunt  and  Isaac  wishing  to 
spend  some  time  in  Pennsylvania, thought  good  to  depart, 
leaving  cousin  R,  still  with  us,  to  whom  we  wished  to 
shew  the  land.  Accordingly,  in  company  with  a  part  of 
uncle  Isaac's  family  and  some  Philadelphians,  we  set  off 
for  Cape  Island,  a  place  thou  knowest  of  resort,  where 
were  gathered  the  great  ones  from  almost  all  quarters. 
It  so  chanced  that  we  got  among  the  fashionables,  at 
Congress  Hall,  which  was  exceedingly  crowded,  and  to 
me  it  was  a  source  of  amusement  to  observe  the  different 
dispositions,  and  various  pursuits  after  pleasure.  It  seemed 
high  life  in  miniature.  A  ball  was  in  preparation,  and  all 
came  out  in  their  finest  equipments,  with  heads  decked 
with  curls,  flowers,  and  greens,  and  arm  in  arm  some 
paraded  the  ample  apartment,  waiting  the  time  of 
action.  I  was  a  silent  looker  on,  but  could  but  think  how 
hutterfly-like  life  was  sported  away.  A  moonlight  view 
of  old  ocean,  was  far  more  interesting  to  me,  as  well  as  a 
ride  to  the  light-house,  whose  very  summit  we  reached, 
but  it  being  a  misty  morning,  our  vision  was  much  limit- 
ed. I  cannot  say  all  I  want  to,  for  my  hand  grows  very 
tremulous.  My  strength  is  not  yet  wholly  regained.  I 
was  not  well  while  there,  and  finding  indisposition 
increasing,  we  left  the  rest  of  the  company  and  hurried 


ANN    WILLSON.  81 

homeward,  again  called  the  medical  man,  and  cousin  R. 
once  more  took  her  station  as  nurse.  Alas  !  how  slender 
a  thread  is  life.  But  as  I  got  sick  fast,  so  in  like  manner 
a  comfortable  state  of  health  soon  returned.  It  has  now 
been  about  two  weeks,  and  I  am  able  to  walk  all  about  the 
premises,  enjoy  the  company  of  the  family,  do  a  little 
sewing,  &c.  Dear  cousin  R.  I  miss  very  much  ;  she  has 
gone  to  her  own  land.  Dost  thou  not  intend  to  see  us  at 
our  own  dwelling  place,  ere  this  year  passes  ?  Receive 
the  unbounded  love  of  Anna's  heart,  and  write  soon,  very 
soon,  to  thy  truly  attached  friend. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Port  Elizabeth,  9th  mo.  23J,  1828. 
My  Dear  S.  A. — To  thee  have  I  offered  the  tribute  of 
affectionate  remembrance,  I  believe  I  may  safely  say 
daily,  since  returning  to  m.y  adopted  dwelling  place. 
Yea,  thou  hast  been  much  of  the  time  present  with  me 
since  I  left  thee  snugly  stowed  away  in  that  spot  where  I 
had  so  sweet  a  nap,  notwithstanding  I  laid  down  with  ra- 
ther a  troubled  mind,  for  I  was  thinking  of  the  unquiet 
spirit  of  man,  and  might  have  added,  how  many  happy 
moments  our  own  restiveness  prevented.  Ah,  truly  of 
evil,  he  is  the  author  to  himself,  but  I  sincerely  hope  we 
may  look  upon  the  world  in  its  sunniness — for  indeed  there 
is  much  innocently  to  enjo}- — and  when  the  Creative  Voice 
called  into  existence  tree,  fruit,  and  flower,  commanded 
rivers  to  rise  and  streams  to  flow  forth,  all  were  pro- 
nounced good.  Upon  man,  too,  rested  the  divine  bene- 
diction, and  he  was  blessed,  being  pure  and  upright.  Let 
us  then  endeavor  to  tune  our  hearts  to  peace,  that  so  they 


82  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

may  harmonise  with  nature,  and  we  shall  then  feel  as  in 
the  beginning,  that  all  is  right.  Though  troubles  be  in 
the  world  they  will  not  affect  nor  move  us,  but  sweet 
serenity  overspread  the  mind;  and  if  there  is  anything  in 
seeing,  has  not  the  sight  of  each  other  renewedly  quick- 
ened the  social,  and  warmed  th?  affectionate  feelings,  thus 
tightening  and  strengthening  the  band  of  love  by  which  we 
have  long  been  preciously  cemented  1     Truly 

<«  Grand  in  age,  and  fair  in  youth 

«'  Are  holy  friendship,  love,  and  truth." 

My  dear  sister  and  her  little  family  were  well,  and 
ready  to  receive  the  wanderer  with  all  willingness  into 
their  quiet  shealing,  and  the  little  lambkin  nestled  close 
to  my  neck,  as  if  sensible  of  an  aunt's  caress.  Thou  wilt 
readily  believe,  a  look  of  gladness  played  upon  Anna's 
countenance,  and  she  rejoiced  in  these  her  earthly  trea- 
sures; yet  suppose  not  all  thought,  all  ardency  is  spent  on 
them,  and  for  other  guests  there  is  no  room.  Nay,  it  is 
not  so ;  for  a  right  built  heart,  like  a  stately  mansion,  has 
many  apartments  and  can  entertain  accordingly ;  though 
I  perhaps  have  not  full  claim  upon  this  simile,  yet  I  trust 
a  measure  thereof  may  be  adapted  to  myself.  The  ride 
was  not  a  tedious  one  as  I  expected,  though  I  much 
missed  my  fellow  traveller.  Our  homeward  way  was  oft 
adorned  with  wild  blossoms,  pink,  yellow,  and  blue, 
which  my  kind  uncle  at  one  time  stopped  to  gather,  well 
knowing  his  companion  loved  bright  things.  The  fringy 
cedar  and  tassely  pine  too,  seemed  of  a  more  vivid  hue 
than  when  we  passed  them  last,  and  helped  to  reconcile 
me  to  the  long  stretch  of  sandy  road  which  must  be 
travelled ;   and  thou  well  knowest  the  lively   and   ani- 


ANN    WILLSON,  83 

mated  appearance  of  nature  conveys  pleasure  to  the  heart. 
I  oft  in  fancy  see  your  flowery  spot  in  all  its  beauty, 
and  can  almost  behold  E.  walking  round  its  borders, 
feasting  her  eyes  with  its  morning  or  evening  loveliness. 
But  these,  alas!  are  "frail  and  fleeting,  though  types, 
perhaps,  of  much  to  which  our  hearts  are  clinging." 
From  New  York  I  have  not  heard  since  my  return,  and 
begin  to  feel  a  little  impatient ;  I  would  that  I  dare  please 
myself  with  the  prospect  of  seeing  them  ere  autumn 
passes  by,  but  the  language  to  my  mind  is  expect  not. 
How  earnestly  I  covet  that  kind  of  happiness  which  is 
independent  of  externals  ;  yes,  my  beloved  friend,  I  would 
that  I  with  thee,  and  thou  with  me,  might  seek  such 
enjoyment  as  is  durable,  then  could  we  journey  on 
through  life  ever  rejoicing.  Have  these  delightful 
moonlight  evenings  tempted  thy  feet  to  stray  ?  for  Anna 
could  not  resist  the  charm,  and  if  it  nerved  not  the  frame, 
it  inspired  and  renovated  the  mind.  The  silvery  mantling 
which  is  spread  upon  the  earth  seems  to  reflect  its 
softened  radiance  upon  the  heart.  Adieu,  my  dear  friend, 
and  let  me  not  look  long  for  a  token  of  thy  remembrance. 

Anna. 

To  I.  T ,  Jr. 

Port  Elizabeth,  iOth  mo.  17th,  1828. 
My  Dear  Brother: — While  thy  frow  is  occupied 
with  her  little  charge,  I  have  the  grant  of  half  this  sheet, 
which  I  am  quite  inclined  to  use,  having  divers  things  to 
say,  not  only  from  the  heart,  but  also  the  head  ;  for,  as 
your  rejoicing  is  in  one  another,  so  is  mine  in  you, 
having,  I  can  truly  aflirm,  no  greater  earthly  desire  than 
your   happiness.     It  matters    little  what  falls  to  Anna's 


84  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

lot,  if  her  mind  is  but  resigned  to  all  events  ;  my  cup  of 
life  has,  indeed,  been  mingled  with  drops  of  bitterness ; 
yet  therewith  could  I  be  content,  if  all  does  but  work 
together  for  good,  and  school  me  for  that  better  country 
where  there  is  a  continuance,  and  from  which  shade  and 
cloud  are  excluded.  Attended  meeting  this  morning,  in 
which  the  greetings  of  my  spirit  were  toward  thee,  think- 
ing it  likely  thou,  too,  wert  gathered  with  the  assembly 
of  the  people,  to  receive,  perhaps,  a  crumb  of  that  bread 
which  the  world  knoweth  not  of,  but  which  assuredly 
nourishes  and  strengthens  the  inner  man. 

Many  a  kind  thought  has  been  sent  after  the  traveller, 
and  much  do  we  feel  the  vacuum  thine  own  self  occa- 
sions; therefore  look  we  earnestly  for  thy  home-coming, 
as  soon  as  thy  various  concerns  will  admit,  whether 
success  attend  all  thy  endeavors  or  not ;  for  truly  I,  with 
Burns,  believe,  "  'tis  nae  in  gold,  'tis  nae  in  gear,  to 
make  us  truly  blest."  What  indeed  are  all  the  treasures 
of  time  in  comparison  of  the  imperishable  riches  of 
Him  who  is  a  tower  of  strength  to  those  who  put  their 
trust  in  Him?  And  as  affection  is  counted  among  the 
most  precious  pearls  which  belong  to  the  durable  king- 
dom, so  those  who  possess  a  portion  thereof  may  confide 
in  its  surviving  "  the  wreck  of  matter  and  the  crush  of 
worlds." 

What  an  Eden-picture  would  our  globe  present  did  we 
always  live  in  unity  and  harmony,  loving  and  being  be- 
loved; proving  ourselves  children  of  the  one  universal 
Parent,  and  members  of  His  large,  but  happy  family? 
Truly,  while  I  write  my  heart  glows  with  the  fancied 
view.     Then  let  us  individually  aim  at  paradising  the 


.     ANN    WILLSON.  85 

world,  and  these  eiForts,  though  feeble,  would  doubtless  be 
blessed  to  ourselves  ;  recollecting 

"  He  whose  watchful  tenderness  removes 

The  rankling  thorn  that  wounds  the  breast  he  loves, 

Smoothes  not  another's  rugged  path  alone, 

But  scatters  roses  to  adorn  his  own." 

To  hear  from,  or  see  thee  soon,  is  the  desire  of  thy  own 
sister 

Anna. 
To   I.  T . 

Port  Elizabeth,  10th  mo.  19th,  1828. 
My  Dear  LTncle  : — Just  as  our  minds  were  prepared  to 
hear  of  home-coming,  the  contents  of  thy  letter  chastened 
the  pleasant  anticipation,  by  informing  us  of  two  added 
weeks  to  thy  stay.  Well,  be  it  so.  I  trust  we  shall  be 
resigned ;  for  if  the  vineyard  be  His,  so  also  are  the 
laborers ;  and  when  duty  points  the  path,  we  ought  surely 
to  yield  our  nearest  and  dearest  to  its  manifestoes,  knowing 
that  peace  is  the  purchase  price  for  days  of  service  and 
severance,  that  so  thou  mayest  return  with  the  sweet 
earnings  of  obedience,  remembering  the  encouragement  of 
scripture  testimony  :  '« whoso  doeth  the  will  of  my  father, 
the  same  is  my  mother,  sister  and  brother."  And  while 
you  are  partaking  of  the  fruits  of  the  Spirit,  we  are  sor- 
rowing for  those  of  the  flesh,  grieved  that  brother  should 
wage  war  with  brother  ;  thus  making  a  breach  in  the 
camp,  and  setting  up  the  standard  of  disunion.  Truly 
these  things  are  adverse  to  the  intents  of  the  gospel, 
which  is  to  establish  ''peace  on  earth,"  and  good  will 
among  its  inhabitants  ;  but  strange  it  is,  that  man  should 
pervert  the  good  designed,  by  rising  up  against  his  fellow, 

instead  of  following  the  example  of  him   who  said,  "  I 

8 


86  FAMILIAR    LETTERS  OF 

judge  no  man,  though  if  I  did,  my  judgment  would  be 
true  ;  but  there  is  one  that  judgeth,  even  God,  and  all  ye 
are  brethren.'^  Please  make  our  love  acceptable  to  aunt 
E.  and  R.,  who  doubtless  are  not  only  sowing  but  reaping; 
yes,  for  he  not  only  puts  forth,  but  himself  goeth  before, 
and  his  reward  is  with  him. 

Anna. 

To  L.  S . 

Port  Elizabeth,  Uth  mo.  29tk,  1828. 
My  dear  Lydia  : — Thought  has  not  been  as  tardy  as  the 
pen,  for   I  have,  I  believe  I   may  say,  daily  remembered 
thee,  and  said  in  my  heart,  I    will   write  soon ;  but  one 
little    concern  or  another  runs  off  with  these  short  days, 
'till  behold  two  weeks  have  passed  away.     Truly,  "trifles 
make  up  the   sum  of  human  things,"   and,  Obidah  like, 
we  suffer  ourselves  to  wander  from  the  right  way,  gather 
flowers  and  listen  to  the  warblings  of  pleasure,  'till  time  is 
far  spent,  strength  wasted,  and  no   ability  left  to  retrace 
our  steps.     But  let  us  recollect  the  wisdom  of  his  conduct 
and  be  instructed  ;   he  prostrated  himself  on  the  ground, 
and  commended  his  life  to  the  God  of  nature.     Doubtless, 
my  dear  Friend,  thou,  like  myself,  often  feels  that  thy  day 
is  declining,  and  thou  not  prepared  for  its  end.     This  is  a 
digression,  but  please  excuse  it,  and  I  will  proceed  to  tell 
thee  what  I  was  about  to — viz  :   that  we   remained  from 
home   a  week,  enjoyed  the   company  of  many  interesting 
Friends,   and  were,  I   hope,  edified  as  well  as  pleased. 
Didst  thou  not  think  Darby  Quarter  was  owned  by  Him, 
who  is  the    crown  of  all  rightly  gathered  assemblies  ?     I 
have  often  thought  since,  of  the  Friend  who   rose  with, 
'*  Be  instant  in   season,"  and  consider  it   an  added  proof, 


ANN    WILLSON.  87 

that  the  oracle  was  there.  We  dined  at  E.  Garrigues'  in 
company  with  E.  H.  and  wife,  C.  B.  and  wife,  C.  and 
P.  T.,  and  Dr.  M.,  a  goodly  company,  1  think ;  but  we 
separated  immediately  after  dinner,  each  hurrying  his  own 
way.  I  was  not  well  satisfied  with  the  little  glimpse  of 
thee.  It  seemed  but  to  renew  affection,  awaken  memory, 
and  stir  up  many  a  deep  thought.  How  gladly  would  I 
draw  thy  little  bark  to  the  "  Port,"  that  we  might  shed 
"  tear  for  tear  ;"  yea,  weep  together  and  rejoice  together? 
for  I  trust  we  have  cause.  Oh  that  these  "  light  afflictions 
may  work  out  for  us  a  far  more  exceeding  and  eternal 
weight  of  glory." 

"  In  all  misfortunes  some  advantage  lies, 
They  teach  us  to  be  humble  and  be  wise." 

And  may  we,  beloved  one,  when  the  storms  of  life  are 
passed,  find  sure  anchorage  in  the  haven  of  eternal  rest, 
whither  most  of  my  family  are,  I  hope,  safely  landed  be- 
fore me.  We  returned  to  town  the  same  night,  and  went 
to  Woodbury  next  day.  The  Quarter  here  was  also  large, 
and  favored,  I  think,  by  the  overshadowings  of  Divine 
goodness,  and  Friends  were  refreshed  and  comforted  to- 
gether. Oh  that  this  people  might  praise  the  Lord  for  his 
benefits,  and  for  his  marvellous  works  among  the  children 
of  men.  I  was  glad  aunt  managed  so  well  in  her  sister's 
absence,  and  hope  they  will  be  encouraged  to  come  again, 
when  a  convenient  season  offers.  Their  visit  was  a  treat 
to  us.  Society  hare  is  very  limited;  ours  is  chiefly  con- 
fined to  the  two  houses.  S.  and  M.  have  gathered  their 
goods  and  departed.  Aunt  H.  is  quite  sick,  so  as  to  sit  up 
but  little.  There  is  very  little  grass  grows  in  the  path 
between  us,  I  can  tell  thee.  I  have  not  time  to  spare  to 
talk  more  to  thee  now,  for  several  important  things  are  to 


88  FAMILIAR   LETTERS   OF 

be  done  yet  to  day.  Little  Rebecca  is  crawling  about  the 
floor,  trying  to  arrange  matters  to  her  mind,  though  it 
does  not  suit  auntie  right  well.  I  should  like  to  intro- 
duce her  to  thee,  for  she  is  a  very  fine  child  ;  didst  thou 
ever  know  an  auntie  that  was  not  proud  1  Do  not  laugh 
when  I  tell  thee  I  am  reading  Hamilton  on  education. 
Sis  charged  me  to  leave  a  vacancy  for  her;  she  is,  matron 
like,  busied  about  many  things.  With  the  salutation  of 
love  unfeigned,  I  must  say  farewell. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Port  Elizabeth,  12ik  mo.  Uth,  1828. 
My  brother  talks  of  journeying  city-ward,  though  not 
entirely  settled  in  his  mind  as  to  the  day  and  the  hour ; 
but  I  am  not  willing  he  should  depart  letterless,  hoping 
to  provoke  thee  to  one  good  work,  viz. — transmitting 
some  few  thoughts  of  a  heart  I  love,  to  a  distant  one, 
absent  in  body  but  oft  present  in  mind  ;  and  I  trust 
sometimes,  too,  in  spirit,  for  though  I  remain  to  be  a 
rebellious  backsliding  daughter,  yet  the  dews  of  heaven, 
at  seasons,  rest  upon  me,  and  hope,  that  ever  lights  life's 
path  with  cheering  ray,  consoles  me  in  the  belief  that 
I  shall  one  day  be  enabled  to  "mount  upward."  But 
oh  that  there  might  be  a  full  surrender,  an  entire  dedi- 
cation, a  willingness  to  take  up  the  cross,  which  con- 
tinues to  be  a  stumbling  block  and  foolishness.  Dost 
thou  not,  my  dear  S.,  when  petitioning  for  thyself, 
sometimes  remember  thy  frail  friend  1  The  billows  of 
time  have  broken  heavily  against  my  little  bark,  and 
nearly  loosed  its  earthly  anchorage  ;  would  that  the 
all-wise  Pilot,  who  alone  is  able  to  steer  aright,  might 
henceforth  take  the  helm. 


ANN    WILLSON.  89 

My  dear  Sally  Ann,  I  have  no  prospect  of  communi- 
cating anything  of  a  peculiarly  interesting  nature,  but 
the  simple  effusions  of  a  heart  sincere  in  its  love  for 
thee  will  not,  I  trust,  be  unacceptable ;  for  indeed  what 
should  I,  who  am  an  abider  in  an  isolated  part  of  the 
earth,  where  "  the  town  has  scarcely  tinged  the 
country,"  little  seeing,  and  little  hearing,  say  to  one 
who  dwells  in  the  great  Babel,  and  is  ever  an  eye  and 
ear  witness  to  the  world's  varieties  1 

Thus  far,  my  beloved  friend,  did  I  travel  on  Sabbath 
eve,  after  our  little  family  had  sought  their  nest,  with 
that  solemn  quiet  around  me  which  naturally  leads  the 
mind  to  serious  musings,  or  as  Young  would  say, 
"That  nurses  the  tender  thought  to  reason,  and  on 
reason  builds  resolve,"  &c.  Oh  would  that  coming  day 
did  not  too  oft  find  us  straying  from  the  marked  out 
path,  to  pursue  again  its  allurements.  Art  thou,  my 
dear  friend,  an  abider  by  the  fireside,  or  does  the  moon- 
light season  tempt  some  walks  abroad  1  To  me  there 
is  so  much  beauty,  and  such,  if  I  may  so  express  it, 
unearthly  purity  in  the  scene,  that  I  am  ready  with 
David  to  exclaim,  "  When  I  consider  thy  heavens,  the 
work  of  thy  fingers,  the  moon  and  the  stars  which  thou 
hast  ordained,  what  is  man  that  thou  art  mindful  of 
himl" 

Very  many  thanks,  my  dear  S.,  for  the  precious 
epistle  last  Fourth  day  received  ;  it  was  truly  savory 
to  my  spirit,  and  I  know  not  whether  a  fold  could  find 
a  more  cordial  greeting.  It  was  not  only  proof  of 
unabated  afl^ection,  but  also  convinced  me  that  our 
thoughts  were  turned  toward  one  another  at  the  self- 
same time  ;  for  thine  bears  the  same  date  of  this  scrawl 
6*^ 


90  FAMILIAR   LETTERS   OF 

Does  not  love,  therefore,  possess  mental  attraction,  and 
thinkest  thou  the  soul  may  not  in  like  manner  be  offering 
up  secret  aspirations  to  the  bountiful  Disposer  of  "  every 
good  and  perfect  gifti"  Truly,  methinks  there  is,  at 
seasons,  a  postrating  ourselves  together  before  Him,  in 
whose  sight  we  are  but  as  the  dust  of  the  balance ;  yet 
when  the  sceptre  of  love  and  mercy  is  extended,  we  are 
made  to  rejoice  in  that  he  condescends  to  our  low 
estate.  Winter  has  now  fairly  set  his  foot  upon  our 
territories,  and  gladly  indeed  would  I  draw  to  the  fire- 
side with  thee,  and  pour  over  the  rich  treasures  of 
Ormond's  mind.  Purity  is  the  varnish  of  nature,  which 
the  finger  of  time  cannot  tarnish  ;  such  it  is  that  per- 
vades the  writings  of  Cowper,  and  will  doubtless  con- 
tinue to  make  them  acceptable  to  distant  periods  of  the 
world.  How  comfortable  must  that  author's  feelings 
be,  who  pens  not  a  word,  a  thought,  "that,  dying,  he 
would  wish  to  blot  1"  'Tis  again  the  Sabbath,  and 
while  our  little  family  are  gathered  at  the  kirk,  for 
social  worship,  I  am  disposed  to  finish  this,  that  it  may 
be  on  its  way  to-morrow,  when  brother  thinks  of 
departing  for  P.  What  a  lonely  few  we  shall  be.  I 
am  sorry  to  hear  thou  continues  to  be  an  invalid.  Do 
nurse  up  that  slender  frame  of  thine  ;  these  light  afflic- 
tions may  be  in  wisdom  dispensed.  I  remember  to 
have  read  somewhere, 

''  The  soul's  dark  cottage,  battered  and  decayed, 
Lets  in  new  light  from  chinks  that  time  has  made." 

I  remain  at  home  to-day,  in  consequence  of  slight 
indisposition.  Little  R.  is  my  companion,  who  is  tra- 
velling about  the  floor  and  exhibiting  divers  baby  tricks. 


ANN    WILLSON.  91 

Truly,  I  can  set  my  seal  to  the  testimony  "  that  the 
bird  which  we  nurse  is  the  bird  we  love  best."  Let 
me  tell  thee,  a  letter  cannot  come  too  soon  to  thy  dis- 
tant, yet  not  the  less  faithful,  Anna. 

To  L.  S . 

4>th  mo.  1st,  1829. 
My  dear  Lydia  : — Among  the  many  recollections 
which  Spring  calls  forth,  of  friends  gone  and  far 
away,  I  pause  to  offer  thee  a  tribute  of  affectionate  re- 
membrance. Ere  long  earth  will  be  renewed  in  verdant 
loveliness  and  greenness ;  gaiety  and  song  everywhere 
greet  the  eye  and  ear;  but,  ah  me!  the  desolate  heart 
cannot,  will  not,  be  in  like  manner  reanimated.  The 
furrows  of  sorrow  are  too  deep  to  be  smoothed  by  the 
seasons'  round  ;  yet  who  can  forbear  to  rejoice  with 
nature  %  Surely  none.  I  delight  in  her  leafiness  and 
floweryness,  and  my  mind  is,  at  times,  led  onward  from  a 
view  of  this  world's  adornments,  to  that  higher  state,  of 
the  joys  of  which  we  are  scarcely  able  to  have  any  com- 
mensurate conceptions.  Oh,  my  dear  friend,  that  we 
may  be  worthy  of  that  brighter  and  better  inheritance, 
beyond  time's  threshold,  where  tearful  eyes  and  fleeting 
periods  are  alike  unknown.  I  regretted  to  hear  that 
suffering  had  been  portioned  unto  you,  and  that  the 
little  angelic  tenement  had  been  thus  acted  upon;  but, 
my  dear  L.,  for  such  as  these,  our  minds  are  at  rest. 
Not  believers  in  original  sin,  we  view  their  sainted 
spirits  as  an  untarnished  gem.  No  prayer,  no  tear  is 
hovering  around  it ;  for  none  it  needs.  To  heaven  it 
would  but  return  in  its  own  native  purity  ;  and  the 
casket,  beautiful,  be  left  unsoiled.     Still  they  are  dear 


92  FAMILIAR    LETTERS   OF 

to  US,  and  our  affections,  like  so  many  threads,  fasten  us 
to  them.  May  then  your  little  William  live,  to  repay 
your  fondness,  and  his  unspotted  life  call  down  blessings 
in  age.  Here  I  sit  by  the  cradle,  for  my  sister  and  her 
long  tried  assistant  Sarah,  are  as  busy  as  bees.  This 
is  a  stirring  season,  thou  knows.  I  have  been  kept  in 
my  chamber  for  a  week,  occasioned  by  very  heavy  colds; 
but  I  am  now  nearly  well  again,  and  wert  thou  here, 
could  talk  many  letters  full,  for  my  tongue  remains  to 
be  as  sound  a  member,  I  believe,  as  this  frail  body  pos- 
sesses. I  could  not  but  smile  at  the  idea  of  thy  being 
so  occupied,  and  feeling  so  bound  to  home  and  its  con- 
cerns ;  for  it  is  oft  my  experience  also  ;  the  people  not 
unfrequently  say,  what  hast  thou  to  tie  thee  so  closely] 
In  one  thing  we  are  and  may  be  comforted,  my  dear  L., 
that  our  days  of  usefulness  are  not  at  an  end,  but  that 
we  may  still  be  servicable  ;  for  who  would  live  for 
nought  1  How  darest  thou  say  aught  against  thy  folios, 
which  always  nnd  a  welcome  at  the  "Port  1"  I  ask  not 
the  varnish  of  eloquence,  or  the  gloss  of  oratory  ;  give 
me  but  the  faithful,  affectionate  heart. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Port  Elizabeth,  Uh  mo.  St/i.,  1829. 
Hadst  thou,  my  dear  friend,  a  feeling  sense  of  Anna's 
infirmity?  For  I  had  but  just  descended  from  my  cham- 
ber to  enjoy  again  a  comfortable  portion  of  health,  when 
thine  came,  and  I  cannot  measure  the  length  and  breadth 
of  my  joy,  at  so  unexpected  a  favor.  The  inclemency  of 
winter  had  neither  shut  in  nor  congealed  affection's  cur- 
rent. Oh  no  ;  the  seasons'  change  operate  not  thus. 
Though  far  from  our  cottage  door  the  feet  were  not  often 


ANN    WILLSON.  93 

found  to  stray,  yet  the  goings  forth  of  thought  were  free 
and  unrestrained ;  besides,  thou  wert  taken  into  the  inner 
tent,  where  love  sits  enthroned,  and  silent  and  secret  com- 
munion is  at  times  enjoyed.  On  this  wise  had  I  intended 
speaking  weeks  ago,  but  many  hindering  things  prevented, 
and  nought  occurred  very  worthy  of  communication. 

And  now,  much  as  I  should  rejoice  in  seeing  thy  face  and 
feeling  my  strength  renewed  in  thy  presence,  yet  to 
remain,  that  my  sister  (who  seldom  leaves  her  cares  and 
concerns,  to  wander  abroad,)  may  be  at  liberty,  feels  more 
satisfactory  ;  and  I  am  glad  to  release  her  for  a  short 
space.  Our  little  Rebecca,  who  is  already  beginning  to 
admire  nature's  varied  garment,  as  represented  to  her  eye 
in  the  bright  yellow  of  a  daffodil,  or  such  alluring  hues  as 
the  early  blossoms  show,  will  be  company.  This  is  to  me 
the  most  eloquent  of  seasons  ;  there  is  a  language  of  per- 
fection, of  beauty,  and  of  deep  interest,  in  every  blade  of 
grass,  in  every  flower,  and  in  every  tuneful  inhabitant  of 
the  air  ;  and  we  can,  with  Thompson,  exclaim,  "  forth  in 
the  pleasing  spring  thy  beauty  walks,  thy  tenderness  and 
love." 

I  wonder  not,  my  dear  L.,that  all  an  aunty's  fondness 
and  affection  were  awakened  at  the  parting  with  your  E. 
He  appears  worthy  thereof.  These  are  twisting,  twining 
tendrils,  which  weave  themselves  close  round  the  heart. 
May  his  manhood  be  preserved  pure  and  spotless. 

T  hope  Mary  is  not  much  amiss ;  I  have  not  had  a  letter 
from  her  for  several  weeks.  Hers  is  a  slender  frame  ; 
but  "  dust  we  are,  and  unto  dust  we  must  return."  Is  it 
not,  then,  strange,  that  we  should  so  much  dread  the 
idea  of  laying  down  the  shackles  of  mortality,  more  espe- 
cially as  we  believe  it  to  be  a  truth  that  "  eye  hath  not 


94?  FAMILIAR   LETTERS    OF 

seen  nor  ear  heard,  neither  have  entered  into  the  heart  of 
man  the  things  which  God  hath  prepared  for  them 
that  love  Him  ?"  Ts  it  not,  then,  because  we  fear  this  love 
does  not  sufficiently  abound  that  we  shrink  back  and  are 
afraid?  Oh,  my  friend,  to  be  willing  to  stay,  or  ready  to 
go,  is  a  state  above  all  others  to  be  coveted.  Let  us  mutu- 
ally desire  it  for  one  another,  and  hope  that  our  feeble 
efforts  may  be  helpful  •  and  that  when  the  vessels  shall 
be  filled  to  the  brim  with  water,  (significant  of  weakness 
and  self-insufficiency,)  it  may  be  changed  into  wine,  to 
the  great  refreshment  of  our  souls.  I  was,  not  long  since, 
deeply  touched  with  an  elucidation  of  this  subject,  and 
therefore  have  simply  mentioned  it  as  it  now  arose.  I 
wonder  not  that  Solomon  should  say,  it  is  better  to  go  to 
the  house  of  mourning  than  of  mirth,  because  thereby  we 
are  oft  greatly  instructed ;  and  though  I  have,  in  this 
way,  been  again  and  again  humbled,  and  laid  as  it  were  in 
the  dust,  till  I  have  thought  the  strong  man  armed  (self- 
love  and  will)  was  entirely  slain  and  cast  out,  yet  the  door 
not  being  kept  closely  shut,  there  has  been  a  re-entrance, 
and  the  warfare  must  still  continue.  Oh,  the  blessedness 
of  perfect  resignation,  even  to  the  dedication  of  the  whole 
heart.  Continue,  my  beloved  friend,  to  desire  for  me  as 
well  as  thyself,  Heaven's  holy  keeping,  for  without  it  hu- 
man watch  is  vain. 

Very  grateful  to  me  is  E.'s  remembrance.  I  think  of 
her  oft,  and  particularly  when  there  is  a  disposition  to 
sadness,  and  despondency ;  it  is  then  her  sweet  tempera- 
ment and  unceasing  cheerfulness  come  before  me  as  the 
ministers  of  reproof  and  encouragement.  Therefore  I 
must  call  her  a  silent  preacher. 


-   ANN    WILLSON.  95 

For  thy  two  last  precious  and  invaluable  epistles,  mayst 
thou  find  a  reward  in  thy  own  heart.     Farewell. 

Anna. 

To  A.  A.  T . 


Rahway^  bth  mo.  6th,  1829. 
Though  distant,  not  unmindful.  Nay,  verily  ;  and 
believing  that  you,  also,  bear  us  in  continual  remem- 
brance, we  doubt  not  it  will  be  acceptable  to  hear  of 
our  welfare  and  safe  getting  along.  Second  day  eve  found 
us  at  Rabway,  a  place  truly  dear  to  at  least  one  beino-  5 
for  surely  there  are 

"  Ties  that  round  the  heart  are  spun, 
And  will  not,  cannot  be  undone." 

Yet  so  many  changes  have  of  late  occurred,  that  it 
hardly  has  a  home  feeling.  Busy  memory  is  almost 
constantly  turning  back  the  leaves  of  life,  and  pausing 
upon  pleasant  and  yet  painful  recollections.  The  very 
soil  on  which  I  trod  in  childhood  and  youth,  seems  hal- 
lowed, and  the  scenes  of  time-gone  come  stringing  all 
before  me;  but  this  is  a  theme  that  ill  befits  my  pen; 
let  me  then  spare  your  sympathy.  We  were  welcomed 
by  our  Bristol  friends  Seventh  day  evening,  and  spent 
the  Sabbath  with  them.  Though  stormy,  attended  meet- 
ing, to  which  also  came  Wm.  C,  who  had  good  ser- 
vice; he  spoke  touchingly  of  the  millennium  state,  the 
joy  of  which  was  greater  than  harvest,  or  the  gathering 
in  of  corn  or  wine.  My  mind  was  forcibly  impressed 
with  a  sense  of  its  truth  ;  but  I  saw  that  Jerusalem 
must  yet  be  searched  as  with  a  lighted  candle. 

This  is  a  clear,  sunny  day  ;  the  air  pure  and  balmy  ; 
the  vividness  of  earth's  grassy  mantle,  and    brightness 


96  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

of  here  and  there  an  uplifted  blossom,  is  pleasant  to  my 
eye,  but  breathes  the  language  of  pensiveness  to  my 
heart,  seeming  to  say,  "and  where  is  heV  Though 
we  know  sublunary  joys  are  not  substantial,  yet  are  we 
too  apt  to  lay  the  foundation  of  our  happiness  upon 
them,  and  thus  in  measure  did  I — and  what  availed  it — 
for  "all  flesh  is  as  grass,  and  the  goodliness  thereof  but 
as  the  flower  of  the  field  ;"  the  one  withereth  and  the 
other  fadeth,  and  we  also  pass  away.  Oh,  then,  let  us 
seek  that  uncreated  good  which  abideth  ever.  In  the 
dusk  of  last  eve,  I  walked  a  little  in  the  borders  of  our 
village  ;  looked  round  upon  the  habitations  of  its  dwel- 
lers, aided  by  their  tapers'  feeble  light.  The  militia 
company  had  been  out  through  the  day ;  there  was  a 
sound  of  music  in  the  Inn,  and  the  voice  of  mirth 
abounded,  but  to  me  it  brought  not  light-heartedness. 

A.  W. 

To  L.  S . 

Port  E.,  6th  mo.  13th,  1829. 
My  dear  Lydia: — The  few  lines  transmitted  by  thee, 
while  in  P.,  have  arisen  with  such  pleasant  remem- 
brance this  morning,  that  I  should  almost  do  violence  to 
our  love  and  friendship  were  I  to  resist  or  repress  the 
acknowledgment  at  this  time.  So  thou  mayest  con- 
sider them  like  the  little  bread  cast  upon  the  waters, 
that  was  found  after  many  days.  I  was  glad  to  find 
thou  had  gone  up  to  the  feast,  and  was  made  a  par- 
taker with  the  people.  Instruction  is  sweet  to  the  soul 
of  the  wise — even  the  voice  of  reproof  findeth  entrance 
in  his  heart.     May  we  be  of  this  number.     Thou  wert 


ANN    WILLSON.  97 

gathered  with  the  Israelites,  in  the  temple  at  the  city  of 
"  brotherly  love."  I  assembled  with  the  Jews  at  Gotham  j 
both  I  trust  to  edification.  Ours  was  a  large,  comfort- 
able meeting,  and  a  truly  memorable  close.  The  spirit 
of  prayer  seemed  to  rest  upon  every  heart,  and  solemnity 
to  cover  us  as  a  garment.  I  do  not  now  remember  any- 
thing particularly  impressive;  but  there  was  a  quiet- 
ness, a  sweetness,  a  savor,  which  verified  the  truth  of 
the  saying,  "all  is  well  that  ends  well." 

And,  my  dear  L.,  as  we  continue  still  in  the  body,  it 
must  needs  be  that  we  take  some  thought  for  it  too ; 
therefore  tell  me  where  thou  art,  and  what  about ;  for 
though  we  have  not  houses  nor  lands,  husbands  nor  fami- 
lies to  care  for,  yet  we  are  not  idlers  in  the  mighty  hive 
of  the  world.  Nay,  verily  ;  this,  in  my  own  case,  I  can 
prove  by  sister  Bella,  if  she  would  testify,  for  it  is  no 
longer  ago  than  this  very  morning  that  she  said,  "  thou 
mayest  take  little  R.  wholly  under  thy  control,  if  thou 
wilt."  So  there  is  some  business,  thou  seest.  For  this 
undertaking  I  feel  inadequate,  and  shall  therefore  resign 
the  honor.  A.  L.  has,  I  suppose,  already  released  her 
bark  from  its  moorings,  and  pushed  off  into  the  ocean  of 
matrimonial  life.  I  wish  her  much  happiness  in  the 
voyage,  and  thou,  my  dear  L.,  seems  a  little  fearful,  I 
find,  for  thy  own  safety  and  mine,  and  I  wonder  not  after 
such  a  launch.  I  cannot  say  I  am  at  all  concerned  about 
it,  but  feel  almost  as  safe  as  if  I  inhabited  the  island  of 
Juan  Fernandez  ;  yet  there  is  no  certainty  in  these  things, 
and  I  remember  the  Apostle's  advice,  "  let  him  that 
thinketh  he  standeth,  take  heed  lest  he  fall."  I  do  wish 
we  could  meet  and  have  one  good  full  cup  of  conversa- 
tion, for  if  we  have  not  family  affairs  to  talk  over,  we 

9 


98  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

should  doubtless  find  other  interesting  matters  enough  to 
chatter  about ;  so  let  not  a  convenient  season  for  traveling 
"  Port"-ward  pass  unembraced.  Our  land  now  wears  its 
most  flowery  face — the  woody  part  is  profusely  sprinkled 
with  Laurel  and  Magnolia, — scenting  the  air  and  beauti- 
fying the  scene.  Our  little  Rebecca  paid  them  a  great 
compliment  by  wanting  to  smell  every  now  and  then  on 
our  way  home,  even  when  they  were  some  yards  off.  We 
returned  last  Sixth  day  week,  considerably  fatigued  to  be 
sure,  yet  feeling  as  if  blessed  once  more  with  a  view  of 
the  place  and  friends  of  home.  To  me  there  is  a  thrill  of 
anguish  even  in  this  pleasure  ;  recollection  is  painfully 
powerful.  Yet  our  spirits  were  socially  refreshed,  and 
we  seek  not  to  exile  the  memory  of  sorrows ;  they  have 
been  mingled  with  our  joys ;  indeed  the  thread  of  life  is 
thus  inwoven,  doubtless  for  some  good  intent.  Let  us 
receive  as  meted  out  to  us,  knowing  that  all  these  things 
have  an  end. 


To  S.  A.  W- 


Port  Elizabeth,  1th  mo.  9th,  1829. 
My  Dear  S.  A. — 'Tis  not  only  at  the  quiet  season  of 
twilight,  when  labor  ceaseth,  and  rest  is  known  through- 
out the  land,  for  thus  hath  Heaven  ordained  ;  'tis  not 
only  then,  when  Anna  too,  lays  aside  her  light  but  need- 
ful employ,  and  feels  that  thought  is  more  liberated,  and 
may  wing  its  way  to  distant  dear  ones,  that  the  salutation 
of  my  spirit  is  with  thee — oh  no!  And  I  believe  with 
Fenelon,  that  we  may  be  very  near  one  another  even 
while  separated  by  a  long  measurement  of  earth.  Would 
that  we  might,  as  he  recommends,  "  dwell  in  the  only 
centre  where  we  could  continually  meet  and  be  but  one," 


ANN    WILLSON.  99 

and,  as  a  large  family  circle  round  a  wise  parent,  receiv- 
ing strength  and  instruction  from  his  counsels,  so  might 
the  children  of  men  be  gathered  unlo  the  Fountain  of 
Wisdom  and  Father  of  mankind. 

If  I  except  a  little   danger  which   my  timorous  heart 
supposed   we   encountered  in  crossing   the  river,  we  had 
a   pleasant  journey    home  :  verdure    was   abundant,  and 
Magnolia  and  Laurel  were  in  full  flower.     Whac  eye  but 
drmks    in    enjoyment    when    gazing   on    earth's    living 
raiment  ?     Truly,   I  too    could  say,  Solomon    in    all    his 
glory  was  not  arrayed  like  it;  and  if  the  visible  things  of 
All-creative  Energy  are  so  bountifully  provided,  for  the 
pleasure  and  interest  of  their  frail  tenements,  which  must 
soon  be  dissolved  and  mingle   with   the  dust,  how  much 
more  will  He  not  fill  the  soul  with  the  flowings  forth  of 
those  rivers  of  gladness  which  surround  his  throne  con- 
tinually. 

My  visit  Eastward  was,  as  usual,  pleasant  and  painful. 
There  is  encircling  the  one  spot  most  dear  to  us  a  sacred 
halo,  and  never  do  I  think  earth  elsewhere  will  be  so 
precious.  My  goings  thither  seem  as  pilgrimages  to  a 
hallowed  place.  Though  oft  have  I  wished  to  wander 
there  when  no  eye  saw,  or  ear  heard,  and  pour  forth  the 
plaints  of  loneliness — plant  the  myrtle  or  rose  upon  the 
little  mounds  which  bear  testimony  to  my  bereavements 
while  the  secret  breathings  of  my  spirit  were  to  sleep 
sweetly  beside  them.  But  such  indulgence  would  not, 
perhaps  be  profitable.  On  the  sunny  hills  of  life  I  have 
walked,  let  me  gratefully  remember  it  .;  doubtless  it  is 
expedient  that  we  descend  into  the  shady  vale  the  better 
to  contemplate  the  end  of  time's  journey. 

I  do  not  recollect  that  I  said  much  to  thee  about  New 


100  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

York  and  its  loved  ones  ;  indeed  how  could  I,  for  our 
interview  was  so  glimpse-like  ?  Yet  even  that  short  sea- 
son rests  with  sweet  savor  upon  my  memory.  I  would 
that  thy  path  oft  lay  by  our  door,  that  I  might  greet  thee 
even  in  snatches  of  intercourse.  The  air  round  our 
dwelling  has  been  sweetly  perfumed  with  white  lilies, 
whose  unsullied  cups  were  beautiful  emblems  of  purity  or 
innocence  ;  and  flowers  are  not  all  our  sandy  surface  is 
likely  to  produce  ;  of  melons,  grapes,  and  peaches,  there 
is  considerable  promise.  Come,  then,  and  see  that  our 
land  too,  is  blessed.  Do  write  soon  and  often  :  shut  not 
up  in  thy  heart  its  thoughts  and  feelings,  for  in  thus 
doing  thou  mayest  withhold  encouragement,  counsel,  or 
reproof,  of  all  of  which  thy  friend  stands  in  need.  Are 
we  not  sensible  that  oft  times  "while  we  muse  the  fire 
burns  ?"  Let  us  then  speak,  and  be  one  another's  helpers  ; 
thus  may  our  friendship  be  truly  profitable,  and  yield 
fruit  for  a  heavenly  harvest. 

Anna. 

To  A.  A.  T . 

First  day,  1829. 
My  DEAR  Cousin: — Words  are  inadequate  to  convey 
to  thee  the  full  sum  of  our  aff'ection;  yet  they  may  be 
emblems  of  remembrance,  and  help  to  make  thy  ab- 
sence less  a  separation,  by  telling  thee  how  Port  time 
passes,  and  thus  giving  thee  a  measure  of  the  home- 
feeling.  I,  as  usual,  spend  my  days  between  the  two 
families,  and  though  I  do  spin  street  yarn,  'tis  all  in 
short  threads,  for  I  seldom  set  foot  upon  another's 
threshold.  To-day  I  fell  much  in  rambling  mood,  and 
thought  to  indulge  it,  but  clouds  are  gathering,  and  the 


ANN    WILLSON.  101 

wind  moans  round  our  shealing,  betokening  storm,  thus 
preventing  my  feet  from  bearing  me  to  the  wood  or 
creek-side,  whither  inclination  strongly  tended.  Dost 
thou  not  think  I  would  like  the  Chinese  life,  for  they,  I 
believe,  pass  much  of  it  in  the  open  airl  In  truth,  I 
do  love  to  have  the  wind  playing  about  my  head,  and 
Heaven's  own  drapery — the  clear  blue  sky — for  my 
covering.  Thus  far  only  had  my  pen  travelled,  when 
a  manly  step  was  heard,  and  turning  to  know  who  was 
appearing,  I  saw  before  me  uncle  I.,  who  had  come 
with  an  invitation  to  accompany  him  down  the  wil- 
lowed  pathway.  I  joyfully  acceded  to  the  proposal, — 
bonnet  and  shawl  were  soon  on,  and  we  had  a  right 
pleasant  walk,  notwithstanding  a  little  pattering  of 
rain.  Many  wild  flowers  yet  skirt  the  road-side,  and 
though  Autumn  has  set  his  foot  upon  the  earth,  there 
is  still  a  vividness  in  the  verdure,  a  living  and  refresh- 
ing green  which  is  a  feast  to  the  eyes. 

This  is  the  Sabbath.  H.  Newell,  thou  knowest,  said, 
"  day  of  all  the  week  the  best,  because  emblem  of  eter- 
nal rest."  Attended  our  little  meeting  this  morning, 
from  which  thou  wert  missed  by  me,  at  least,  for  there 
is,  I  have  oft  thought,  a  sweet  intercourse  of  spirit  be- 
tween those  who  are  like-minded,  which  is  truly  com- 
fortable. This  scrawl,  it  seems,  is  waited  for,  and  I 
must  hastily  say,  farewell.     Thine,  &c.,  Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


P.  E.,  \2th  mo.  \st,  1829—11  at  night. 
My  dear  S.  a. — Though  "  winter  has  come  to  rule 
the  year,"  its  congealing,  freezy  influence,  extends  not 
to  my  bosom ;  nay,  truly,  for  not  only  in  the  broad  eye 

9* 


102  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

of  daylight  have  I  been  with  thee,  but  thou  hast  also 
been  the  companion  of  my  pillow,  which  I  resolved  not 
to  seek  this  night  without  speaking  to  thee,  though  late 
be  the  hour.  As  the  fountain  of  our  existence  is  love, 
so  all  the  little  currents  which  set  toward  it  must  be  of 
the  same  nature.  With  this  precious  stream,  I  trust 
my  thoughts  are  this  eve  measurably  imbued,  and  di- 
rected to  thee-ward,  believing  that  we  are  at  times  en- 
abled to  go  up  to  the  house  of  the  Lord  together, 
persuaded  that  "neither  at  this  mountain  nor  yet  at 
Jerusalem"  is  the  exclusively  acceptable  place,  and  my 
dear  friend,  it  is  with  me  to  say,  greet  them  which  be 
of  the  household  of  faith;  not  that  faith  which  stands 
in  worldly  opinion,  but  which  is  built  up  of  the  testi- 
mony of  the  spirit,  in  which,  I  trust,  we  are  in  good 
unity.  There  is  an  elementary  baptism,  but  may  we 
not  hope  we  are  abilitated  to  see  beyond  it ;  and  not 
only  see,  but  at  times  also  to  feel  the  evidence  of  that 
which  is  of  fire,  and  tendeth  to  the  purification  of  the 
heart;  and  though  it  be  with  burning,  may  we  endure 
it,  until  all  that  be  inflammable  be  consumed,  that  so 
the  gold  may  come  forth  in  its  purity.  Let  us  then 
endeavor  to  strengthen,  comfort  and  encourage  one  an- 
other "to  every  good  word  and  work,"  commending 
ourselves  and  each  other  to  Him,  who  is  abundantly 
able  to  cause  even  our  dry  bones  to  live.  Verily,  I 
often  feel  as  if  in  me  "  dwells  no  good  thing  ;"  yet  I  am 
consoled  with  the  belief,  if  we  look  with  confidence  to 
One  who  is  mighty  to  redeem  and  to  save,  we  shall  be 
wonderfully  helped,  and  yet  made  to  sing  on  the  banks 
of  deliverance.  Think  not  I  am  about  to  teach,  nay  I 
desire  no  such  service,  except  it  might  be  in  a  life  void 


ANN    WILLSON.  103 

of  offence  and  blameless.  Let  me  now  return  to  the 
common  topics  of  time,  which,  perhaps,  better  become 
me.  First,  charging  thee,  when  directing  the  pen  of 
intercourse  toward  me,  to  withold  nothing,  not  even  re- 
proof 5  for  how  otherwise  are  w^e  to  be  each  other's 
helpers,  or  how  bring  one  another  on  the  way  Zionwardl 
The  incumbent  duties  of  a  sister,  aunt,  &c.,  have  oc- 
cupied these  hands  almost  entirely  since  my  return  to 
this  home,  where  the  heart  may  dwell ;  but  truly  me- 
thinks  it  matters  little  what  our  engagements  are,  so 
that  we  fill  up  the  allotments  of  life,  though  I  would 
sometimes  like  to  give  better  proof  to  my  friends  how 
much  and  how  sincerely  I  am  theirs ;  but  on  go  the  days 
— the  year  revolves,  and  we  can  hardly  think  the  t^velve 
months  have  really  run  their  pleasant  round — "  so 
noiseless  and  so  light  the  step  of  Time."  Last  First-day, 
we  gathered  our  forces  at  uncle  L's,  who  is  at  once  a 
father  and  a  friend.  A  train  of  cheery,  perhaps  I 
might  say  instructive  conversation  filled  up  the  measure 
of  daylight,  and  in  the  evening,  wishing  still  to  be  undi- 
vided, all  gathered  to  our  hearth-side,  and  were,  I  trust, 
refreshed  socially  and  spiritually  ;  feeling  that  we  had 
indeed  taken  sweet  counsel  together.  "If  bright  in  youth^ 
suie  grandin  age,  are  holy  friendship,  love  and  truth." 
Here  though  in  the  sand,  we  could  be  content  and  happy 
as  mortals  often  are,  did  we  not  oft  think  of  some  that 
are  left  behind  us.  Yes,  a  little  more  of  that  kind  of 
society  in  which  (as  cousin  H.  says)  we  could  feel  a 
soul,  is  much  to  be  desired,  yet  here  are  the  footsteps 
of  the  Deity,  and  we  may  look  on  the  ever  verdant  Pine 
or  aspiring  Cedar,  and  feel  that  we  are  indeed  of  the 
great  family  of   Him,  whose  extending  care  is  over    all 


104  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

his  works.  Dear  aunt  H.'s  health  is  much  improved, 
and  we  hope  she  will  be  long  spared  to  us  ;  she  is  truly 
one  who  is  best  beloved  by  those  who  know  her  best. 

.  TO    HER    BROTHER    AND    SISTER. 

Philadelphia,  A:th  mo.,  1830. 

Dear  Ones  : — Think  you,  that  because  we  continue 
in  the  enjoyment  of  precious  privileges  here,  vsisterly 
affection  and  remembrance  are  at  all  abated?  Nay, 
verily  ;  but  as  the  dew  descending  from  above  attracts  and 
mingles  with  the  moisture  from  beneath,  so  is  love  increas- 
ed two-fold.  Could  the  tongue  exercise  its  activity,  I 
should,  I  expect,  be  very  wordy ;  for  some  pleasant  and 
edifying  social  assemblings  have  been  ours,  and  the  daily 
gathering  of  the  people  have  been  divinely  owned ;  though 
stir  and  commotion  have  prevailed  without  the  gates, 
within  the  temple  there  have  been  found  the  aboundings  of 
life  and  settlement,  and  were  it  not,  as  dear  R.  B.  said 
yesterday,  for  the  internal  evidence  which  proves  all 
things,  a  forward  and  disturbing  spirit,  which  is  going  to 
and  fro  up  and  down  in  the  earth,  could  deceive  the  very 
elect.  We  are  not  left  to  the  changes  of  the  wind.  The 
ark  is  found  abiding  with  the  Israelites,  and  the  Philistines 
have  no  cause  for  rejoicing.  Yesterday  afternoon,  I  had 
a  very  pleasant  seat  near  the  door,  and  was  instructed  in 
seeing  the  people  repair  to  the  hydrant,  and  seeming 
thereby  so  much  refreshed  ;  and  methought  were  we  in 
like  manner  to  gather  to  the  Living  Fountain,  we  should 
indeed  drink  of  its  flowings  and  endure  thirst  no  more. 

My  last  visit  to  cousin  C.'s  will  ^long  be  remembered. 
R.  B.  appeared  in  supplication  most  sweetly.     D.  Quinby 


ANN    WILLSON.  105 

addressed  us  with  "  the  Master  is  come,  and  calleth  for 
thee."  H.  S.  exhorted  very  tenderly,  and  Dr.  Moore  de- 
sired us  to  remember  our  responsibility  for  abundant 
favors.     Your  Anna. 


To  M.  S- 


Port  Elizabeth,  \th  mo.  ICM. 
My    Dear  Cousin    M. — We     received     some     verbal 
tidings  of  you  at  the  lime  of  our  annual  gathering,  where 
it   was  truly    cheering  and  encouraging  to  see  our  dear 
P.  I.  M.  again.     She  seems  like  the  patriarch  formerly,  to 
worship  leaning  upon  her  staff — even  the  unchangeable 
Truth — a  firm  and  never-failing  support,  and  there  were 
other  stars  from  your  galaxy,  of  smaller  magnitude,  yet 
perhaps  of  not  less  brightness.     One,  however,  to  whom  I 
more  especially  allude,  was  R.  H.,  in  whose  labors  there 
was  the  savor  of  life,  and  a  sweetness  both  of  countenance 
and  spirit,  which  adorns  profession.     The    address   from 
your  Meeting  to  ours  was  late  in  its  arrival,  not  reaching 
us  till  the  middle  of  the  week.     R.  H.'s  company  and  en- 
couragement was  particularly  grateful  to  the  committee  on 
essays,  with  whom  she  sat  several  times,  and  gave  edifying 
counsel.     These  opportunities  are  not  of  a  light  character, 
but  were,  me  thinks,  felt  in  full  force  by  many  if  not  all, 
desiring  that  if  anything   went   forth,  it   might  be  what 
the   spirit  saith  to  the  churches.       No  one  seemed  turned 
towards  Ohio,  but  as  there  is  attention  to  the  leadings  and 
pointings  of  Wisdom,  how  wonderful  are  the  results?     E. 
N.  came,  (though  not  on  the  committee,)  and  continued 
through  one  of  the  sittings,  bowed  in  heart,  yet  entirely 
quiet  till  near  the  close,  when  she  rem.arked  that  had  she 


106  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

known  how  it  would  have  been,  she  thought  her  strength 
would  not  have  borne  her  out,  but  that  since  the  reading 
of  the  Epistle  from  Ohio,  she  had  been  renewedly  dipped 
into  feeling  with  the  dwellers  there  :  all  her  exercises  had 
returned,  and  she  had  again  gone  down  as  to  the  pool,  with 
the  blind,  the  halt,  the  lame,  and  the  withered  too,  and 
had  waited  for  the  appearance  of  the  angel;  greatly  hoped 
she  might  not  be  in  the  way  of  any  other,  but  acknow- 
ledged she  was  drawn  to  address  that  meeting.  It  was,  of 
course,  fully  united  with,  and  she  wrote  very  touchingly 
and  beautifully.  Was  there  not  proof  that  the  work  fell 
on  the  right  one  ?  There  were  divers  visitors,  and  the 
words  of  exhortation  were  plentiful  as  the  vernal  showers  ; 
but  I  recollect  nothing  that  came  with  more  force  and 
greater  appeal  to  my  understanding  than  the  brief  utter- 
ance of  a  Southerner,  (I.  G.)  wherein  power  prevailed 
over  speech.  A  report  on  the  abolition  subject  was  adopt- 
ed, containing  excellent  counsel.  Philadelphia  Friends 
also  became  interested  for  the  Aborigines  of  our  country, 
and  a  considerable  number  were  set  apart  for  investigating 
the  situation  and  wants  of  the  injured  Indians.  The  busi- 
ness of  this  large  assembly  was  very  harmoniously  con- 
ducted— much  instruction  extended  throughout  its  session. 
The  absent  were  also  remembered,  and  an  address  to  them 
approved  and  directed  to  the  subordinate  meetings,  so  that 
it  really  seemed  as  if  there  was  a  general  mingling  toge- 
ther in  spirit,  and  a  witnessing,  as  in  days  gone,  the  oil 
that  was  poured  upon  the  head  of  Aaron,  to  extend  to  the 
nethermost  part  of  the  garment.  I  mingled  also  several 
times  in  a  number  of  interesting  social  circles. 

Anna. 


ANN    WILLSON.  107 


To  JR.  H- 


PoH  Elizabeth,  Wi  mo.  27th. 

My  Dear  Cousin  : — Thine  was  received  with  all  due 
gladness,  and  we  rejoiced  in  its  intelligence:  so  be  not  at 
all  disturbed  at  the  prevalence  of  the  Port  fever,  as  thou 
art  pleased  to  term  the  company  of  our  friends.  Their 
presence  has  been  truly  comfortable,  and  we  are  pleased 
to  find  they  feel  drawings  Southward,  affection  being  still 
savory  meat  unto  us  ;  therefore  say  to  cousin  D.  and  Co  , 
be  up  and  coming ;  it  is  well  indeed  the  great  ship  is  like 
to  get  launched  from  the  door-sill,  after  which  the  rest  of 
the  journey  will  I  trust  be  easily  performed.  Our  dear 
New  Yorkers  have  been  with  us,  it  is  true,  a  short  time, 
but  are  now  nearly  ready  to  depart,  and  will  leave  plenty 
of  room  for  you. 

Thou  dost  not  tell  us  who  are  to  join  in  this  excursion, 
but  it  makes  no  difference,  for  we  shall  be  glad  to  see  any 
of  our  friends ;  so  fit  them  off  immediately.  The  two 
families  are  in  usual  health  and  happiness,  and  offer  you 
the  sakitation  of  love  unfeigned.  Thy  letters  are  to  me 
precious  testimonies  of  affectionate  remembrance  ;  con- 
tinue to  favor  me  thus  whenever  feeling  and  time  will 
permit.  I  do  not  think  I  shall  travel  Eastward  this  fall, 
yet  as  I  am  a  changeable  being,like  the  rest  of  the  world, 
it  is  possible.  Sister  sets  me  at  perfect  liberty,  not  willing 
to  make  her  habitation  a  prison-house,  and  would  have  me 
act  agreeably  to  the  impulse  of  inclination  ;  but,  as  I 
never  desired  to  live  for  naught,  and  be  a  useless  inhabi- 
tant of  this  busy  world,  I  am  disposed  to  be  content ;  be- 
cause I  can  to  her  and  hers  be  truly  serviceable,  and  else- 


108  FAMILIAR   LETTERS   OF 

where  I  should  only  act  the  idler's  part,  feeling  the  con- 
cernments of  time  hang  less  heavy  upon  me.  The  younger 
member  of  our  family  is  a  very  restless,  troublesome  lit- 
tle body,  and  needs  a  constant  caretaker.  So  ends  my 
consideration  of  the  matter.  Though  dearly  well  do  I 
love  you  all,  and  gladly  would  my  heart  circle  all  its 
loved  ones  round  our  own  dwelling  place,  yet  seasons  of 
separation  and  distance  seem  destined,  and  I  am  resign- 
ed thereto  I  trust,  firmly  believing  all  may  be  right. 

Anna. 

To  A.  A.  T 


Port  Elizabeth,  1830. 
I  sometimes  indulge  a  little  regret  that  the  pressure  and 
fatigue  of  business  should  at  all  influence  the  mind  or 
check  the  full  flow  of  mental  intercourse,  but  knowing  ex- 
perimentally that  'tis  thus,  seemeth  it  not  necessary  that 
we  should  carefully  avoid  too  much  serving  the  taber- 
nacle, rather  choosing  the  better  part  which  nothing  can 
deprive  us  of  ?  1  oft  think  of  and  desire  to  speak  to  you, 
particularly  now  while  our  loved  sister  is  again  an  inmate 
of  the  chamber  ;  doubtless  she  feels  the  great  value  of 
bodily  strength,  and  I  trust  is  at  times  partaker  of  that  tree 
whose  "leaves  are  for  the  healing  of  the  nations."  We  hope 
soon  to  have  you  gathered  with  us,  that  we  may  be,  for  a 
short  space,  at  least,  an  old-time  family.  I  need  not  tell 
you  to  take  all  possible  care  of  the  dear  invalid,  that  so 
the  day  be  hastened.  Rejoiced  were  we  in  the  coming  of 
the  way-worn  travellers  yesterday ;  though  we  did  not 
look  much  for  them.  Our  father  is  I  think  quite  tired  of 
a  court  and  its  retinue,  and  seems  well  satisfied  with  sitting 
down  in  the  easy  chair  at  home.     So  variable  is  the  mood 


ANN    WILLSON.  109 

of  man  that  I  wonder  not  we  should  be  directed  to  place 
no  confidence  in  the  arm  of  flesh ;  our  trust  is  not  in  bow- 
men or  archers,  but  that  powerful  Name,  which  is  a  tower 
of  strength  to  all  those  who  rely  implicitly  upon  it.  Thy 
late  fold,  my  dear,  was  very  precious  to  me,  and  I  should 
like  to  make  cousin  E.  sensible  how  acceptable  and  com- 
fortable was  her  addition.  I  do  believe  those  little  services 
of  the  mind  should  be  attended  to  ;  'tis  a  confirmation  of 
His  care  who  regardeth  even  the  sparrow.  Remember  me 
kindly,  yea,  affectionately,  to  all  the  metropolitan  beloveds, 
in  which  I  know  sister  desires  to  be  a  participator  ;  suf- 
fering weakens  not  attachment,  but  more  and  more  per- 
fects us  in  love.  Cannot  sister  H.  set  her  seal  thereto  ? 
Very  fully  and  aflfectionately  thy 

A.  W. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Port  Elizabeth,  Mh  mo.  26th,  1830. 
My  Dear  Sally  Ann  :-  After  roving  like  the  bee,  in 
quest  of  sweet  food,  how  pleasant  to  return  again  to  our 
own  humble  hive,  with  the  precious  treasure,  there  to 
settle  for  a  time  and  feed  upon  the  heart's  rememberings  ; 
having  been  refreshed  both  spiritually  and  socially.  Oh 
how  gladly  would  I  oft  renew  the  intellectual  part  of  the 
feast,  were  I  near  enough  to  draw  thee  and  other  dear 
ones  frequently  to  our  ain  quiet  shealing;  and  would  it  not 
be  a  little  relaxation  to  thyself  to  withdrawal  seasons  from 
the  stir  of  the  busy  town,  and  rest  a  wearied  and  noise-sick 
frame  in  the  stilly  cottage  of  the  "Port  V  The  verdant 
raiment  of  Spring-time  now  clothes  the  country.  Such 
vivid  garment  has,  I  know,  much  attraction  for  thee,  and 
I  would  gladly  lend  an  arm  in  all  our  wanderings,  or  give 
10 


no 


FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


thee  a  seat  beside  me,  when  the  chariot  wheels  roll  on- 
ward ;  but  it  seems  the  nature  of  human  things  that  some- 
what should  always  be  lacking  to  complete  the  wishes  of 
earth's  inhabitants,  thus  making  them  fully  sensible  Eden 
is  not  here.  Yet,  as  there  may  be  a  foretaste,  so  the  bud- 
dings of  joy,  affection  and  friendship,  are  all  witnessed, 
and  the  spirit  drinks  in  these  sweet  waters  rejoicingly.  To 
a  heart  like  mine,  which  vibrates  to  all  the  little  touches 
of  domestic  endearments,  home  is  a  cherished  spot,  and  if  I 
knew  not  pleasures  there,  I  should  scarcely  seek,  expecting 
to  find,  elsewhere  ;  and  is  not  the  full  tide  of  gratitude 
sometimes  raised  in  us,  because,  in  the  divine  harmony  and 
government  of  the  world,  things  are  thus  ordered  ?  Would, 
my  dear  S.  A.,  that  our  frail  barks  be  more  directly  turned 
toward  the  immortal  haven  and  port  of  peace,  and  how- 
ever wind  and  storm-cloud  might  gather,  that  we  might 
know  the  all-wise  Pilot  ever  with  us.  So  could  we  fear- 
lessly double  the  capes  of  life,  be  borne  above  the  uplifted 
billows,  and  brought  safely  to  the  "  land  o'  the  leal." 
Our  journey  homeward  was  not  so  tedious  as  I  had  antici- 
pated. Passed  the  Sabbath  at  Woodbury,  and  renewed  our 
travel  Second  da}'  morn.  Here  and  there  some  early 
flowers  met  our  view,  by  the  way  side  ;  verdure  abounded, 
and  though  we  were  a  little  annoyed  by  dust,  yet  convers- 
ing of  things  past,  present  and  to  come,  the  miles  were 
measured  pleasantly  ;  but  all  of  us  were  much  spent  when 
we  arrived.  The  "  Champney"  has  not  yet  made  its  ap- 
pearance, but  I  trust  will  soon.  A  Corchorus  was  in  full 
flower  and  very  beautiful,  clambering  the  house  side.  I 
felt  a  little  proud  of  it,  I  do  believe.  How  dearly  we  love 
what  our  hands  have  planted.  Many  a  bright  little  orna- 
ment our  grounds  own,  and  their  silent  eloquence  speaks 


ANN    WILLSON. 


Ill 


of  All-creative  Energy,  who  calls  the  leaf  to  bud  and  plant 
to  bloom.  "  Oh  Nature  in  a'  thy  shaws"  and  forms  I 
love  thee,  but  most  when  the  verdant  spell  is  upon  thee. 
There  have  been  some  delightful  days  since  our  return  ; 
one  of  them  was  made  good  use  of;  uncle,  aunt,  cousin  A., 
sister,  myself  and  children,  entering  our  commodious 
vehicle  rode  off,  partook  of  a  dish  of  tea  with  an  aged 
friend,  and  came  back  at  evening.  Our  goings  are  not  un- 
frequently  "  ensemble — we  walk  the  same  path,  the  same 
joys  shine  on  us,  and,  if  need  be  that  sorrows  come,  we  sit 
under  their  shadow  together."  Now,  this  is  delightful, 
and  to  me,  perhaps,  a  blessing,  because  it  steals  away  the 
thoughts  from  those  afflictive  days,  which  have  so  deeply 
marked  my  existence.     Thy  friend, 

Anna. 

to  the  home  circle. 

JVew  York,  2T)th  of  Uh  mo. 

Dearly  Beloved  : — It  has  been  with  me  to  speak  to 
you  for  days  past,  but  company,  together  with  divers 
journeys,  has  hitherto  prevented  ;  and  now  I  have  slipped 
away  from  a  pleasant  group  below  stairs,  because  I  could 
no  longer  be  easy  with  quietness,  and  am  so  far  from  de- 
siring to  eat  my  morsel  alone,  that  I  would  fain  gather 
you  all  at  the  temple,  where  the  language  of  instruction  is 
held  forth,  as  well  as  in  the  social  circle,  when  the  cup  of 
cheerful  converse  freely  circulates. 

Last  Fifth  day,  attended  our  Monthly  Meeting  at  R.,  at 
which  were  several  ministering  friends,  among  them  W.  C, 
who  abounded  in  the  words  of  exhortation,  and  for  "Zion's 
sake  could  not  hold  his  peace."  After  a  long  and  heart- 
touchino;  communication  ho  sat  down;  but  soon  rose  again, 


112  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

saying  his  mind  was  suddenly  impressed  with  the  situation 
of  some  who  were  halting  between  two  opinions,  not 
knowinp;  whether  to  turn  to  the  rio;ht  hand  or  left ;  to  such 
he  would  say,  follow  no  man,  follow  Christ ;  and  he  will 
lead  to  green  pastures  and  a  quiet  habitation.  We  were  a 
little  while  in  his  company.  Yesterday's  meetings  were 
very  large  and  crowded.  In  the  morning,  J.  C.  addressed 
the  audience  interestingly  at  Hester  street,  and  E.  Stabler 
in  the  afternoon.  E.  H.  sat,  apparently  bowed  in  silence, 
and  the  patriarch's  tongue  was  still — for  he  finds  Joseph 
is  yet  alive,  and  with  him  seems  not  only  to  rest  the 
blessing,  but  also  the  speech  of  the  father.  Second  day — 
A  large,  comfortable  and  solemn  gathering  this  morning, 
the  silence  of  which  was  sweetly  broken  by  a  supplicating 
voice  in  this  manner  : — "  Oh  holy  Helper,  who  causes  the 
multitude  to  sit  down  in  an  humble  posture  'till  Thou  con- 
descends to  bless  the  bread  and  break  it,"  &c.  Represen- 
tatives were  called,  and  several  epistles  were  read  ;  much 
unity  and  harmony  prevail,  and  we  trust  this  assemblage 
will  be  to  edification.  Many  precious  little  testimonies 
have  been  borne  to  the  unchangeableness  of  the  Truth. 
There  is  no  confusion  of  tongues  or  language,  but  all  speak 
of  the  one  great  and  good  Shepherd  who  is  calling  his  flock 
to  the  fold  of  rest. 

This  afternoon,  a  comfortable  meeting  ;  some  excellent 
counsel  given.  Farewell,  and  believe  me,  though  distant, 
oft  present  with  you  in  mind, 

A.  W. 

To  S.   A.   W . 

Green  Brook,  6tk  mo.  22d,  1830. 
My   Dear  S.    A. — Finding  none  of   the    Gothamites 
likely  to  be   contributors   to   this  folio,  I  left  it  unsullied, 


ANN    WILLSON.  113 

till  I  could  reach  a  recess  in  the  country,  from  which 
quiet  retreat  I  might  greet  thee,  like  the  song  of  the 
warbler  when  resting  its  wings.  In  our  walks,  rides, 
and  settled  seasons  in  Rivington  street,  we  could  have 
desired  thy  participation ;  thought  often  visited  thee,  and 
friendship  and  affection  called  forth  thy  name,  and  didst 
thou  not  almost  fancy  thyself  mingling  in  our  sunshine 
and  shade  ?  Yet  even  this  could  not  make  amends  for 
personal  absence  on  either  side,  though  it  might  act  as  a 
palliative.  That  thou  mayest  enter  more  fully  into  our 
employments  and  pleasures,  I  will  tell  thee  somewhat  of 
them.  After  a  time  of  storm,  during  which  some  visits 
were  made,  the  clouds  parted,  and  the  clear  azure  of 
heaven  being  again  visible,  we  gathered  our  forces  and 
sallied  awa}^  to  Brooklyn — spent  the  day  delightfully 
with  its  dwellers — walked  to  a  garden  of  yet  but  small 
note — had  a  sight  of  a  thousand  silkworms,  which,  though 
so  very  small  and  insignificant  in  appearance,  I  could  not 
but  view  as  marvels  when  I  remembered  we  were  nearly 
all  robed  in  their  labor.  Resting  a  few  days,  we  turned 
our  faces  toward  Amboy,  to  cousin  J.  H.'s  quiet  and 
woody  residence.  There,  nature  may  be  seen  in  her 
sober  senses;  art  has  not  yet  fashioned  and  formed  things 
after  the  world's  pattern  ;  hill,  wood,  and  dale,  remain 
much  as  All-creative  Energy  first  placed  them.  The 
matins  of  the  morning,  were  sweetly  poured  forth  from 
neighboring  trees,  and  the  plaintive  notes  of  the  whip- 
poorwill  were  our  vespers.  Some  of  my  cousins  had 
come  thus  far  to  meet  us  ;  their  own  family  is  large,  so 
that  altogether  we  amounted  to  many.  Next  day  we 
stowed  away  as  close  as  we  well  could  in  a  Jersey  car- 
riage and  gig,  and  journeyed  to  the  mountain-land, 
*10 


114<  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

where   dwells  cousin  D.     Here  the   day  was  pleasantly 
and  quickly  passed,  still  proving   time  lightfooted,  when 
he  leads  in  paths  of  social  pleasure.     When  day  was  near 
closing,  we  again  entered  our  vehicles,  and  reached  not 
cousin  J.'s  till  the  shadows  of  night  were  o-athered  about 
the  earth.     On  the  morrow,  saying  farewell  to  the  kind 
hearts  here,  we  returned  to  the  Isle  of  the  sea,  and  after 
a  few   days  of  quiet,  it  was  proposed  to  treat  ourselves 
with  a  stroll  at  Hoboken.     Taking  an   early  dinner,  we 
wended  our   way  thither.     The    lawn    in  front    of  the 
accommodation   house    is  thickly  peopled,  these    sunny 
summer  afternoons  ;  children  are  frisking  and  sporting  on 
the   green   sward,   like    lambs;  healthful  and   refreshing 
zephyrs  play  about  their  heads,  while  the  little  creatures 
seem  in  possession  of  all  the  liberty  and  pleasure   their 
tiny  spirits  can  imagine  or  desire.     We   followed    the 
shady  pathway  by  the  river   side,  and  were  now  enjoy- 
ing, from   some    sudden    opening,  the    broad   expanse    of 
waters,  with   here  and  there  a  sail  upon  its  bosom  ;  then 
again  wound  our  way  among  the  screening  foliage  or  net- 
work of   leaves.       In    the     distance,    proudly    rose    the 
owner's   manse,  semblance  of  eagle's    eyrie,  perched  on 
towering   cliff.     With   cautious  step,  we   descended,  and 
sauntered  along  the  shore  till  we  found  a  spring  beneath 
some  shelving  rocks,   and   dipping  an  oyster  shell  in  the 
pure     fountain,    partook    freely,    deeming    it    the    most 
delightful  beverage.     Whether  some  sylvan  nymph  trans- 
formed herself  into  a  feathery  one,  I  shall  not   pretend  to 
say,  but,  when  we  had   done,  a  beautiful  little  bird  of 
golden  plumage  came  down,  fairy-like,  washed  its  glow- 
ing pinions,  drank,  and  flitted  off,  with  the  quickness  of 
thought.     Evening  hour  was  now  drawing  on,  warning 


ANN   WILLSON.  115 

the  multitude,  who  had  spread  themselves,  as  flocks  of 
sheep  about  the  grounds,  to  return  each  to  their  own  fold. 
Two  days  longer  did  Anna  continue  in  New  York,  then 
came  uncle  J.  and  escorted  me  to  Rahway,  a  place  where 
sorrow  always  must  sweep  mournfully  over  the  chords  of 
the  heart ;  but  though  my  spirit  breathes  a  requiem  o'er 
days  departed,  yet  I  find  there  is  less  pain  and  more  of  a 
calm  and  sober  pensivcness  inspired  by  the  sight  of  our 
own  dear  home  and  its  attachments. 

"  O  Thou  who  driest  the  mourner's  tear, 

How  dark  this  world  would  be, 
If,  when  bereaved  and  wounded  here, 

We  could  not  fly  to  Thee  !" 

To  A.  A.  T . 


Rahway,  1th  mo.  2,  1830. 
My  Dear  Cousin  A. — To  whom  I  feel  bound  by  more 
(may  I  not  say)  than  the  affinity  of  the  flesh — yea,  kin- 
dredship  of  soul  I  trust  unites  us — a  seed  of  Heaven's 
own  planting  ;  may  it  receive  culture  and  nurture,  for 
it  is  an  amaranthine  bud — a  little  foretaste  of  joys  eter- 
nal, and  I  would  not  lose  even  my  small  measure  of 
this  precious  inheritance  for  many  glittering  treasures 
of  earth,  because  I  can  surely  testify 

«  Dear  is  the  tie  that  binds 

In  union  sweet,  accordant  minds." 

Corporeal  pleasures  are  liable  to  much  interruption, 
and  always  perishable  ;  but  love  is  of  that  pure,  ethereal 
nature,  that  cannot  be  dissolved  by  time.  Therefore 
well  may  we  prize  a  sister-spirit,  believing  assimilation 
here    is    unity    hereafter ;    and,    to    my    dear    adopted 


116  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

parents,  let  me  say,  a  daughter's  thoughts  are  oft  steal- 
ing away  from  visibles — turning  from  trivial  enjoy- 
ments to  rest,  pleasantly  rest,  on  the  sunny  shealings 
of  home.  Such,  in  these  days,  I  feel  the  two  habita- 
tions at  the  South,  and  it  is  no  marvel,  for  there  is  found 
an  element  in  which  I  can  live  spiritually  as  well  as 
bodily,  when  I  sufficiently  heed  the  accordance  of 
inward  evidence  with  outward  exhortation  and  counsel. 
Nevertheless,  1  dearly  love  my  friends  here,  and  am 
sensible  that  there  are  threads  of  locality  which  bind 
us  in  close  attachment ;  yet,  leaving  the  days  that  are 
gone  and  the  things  that  are  behind,  I  see  other  be- 
loveds in  the  outward  walks  of  time,  with  whom  future 
existence  will,  methinks,  be  very  agreeably  measured  ; 
but  as  an  unmated  bird  tunes  not  its  notes  to  fellow 
songsters,  but  ever  sends  its  song  upward  to  that  Being 
who  gave  it  melody,  so  may  the  thoughts,  motives  and 
intents  of  a  lone  one's  heart  all  center  in,  and  ascend 
toward  the  Source  from  whence  they  came.  Thy  fold 
was  greeted  with  great  cordiality,  being,  as  thou  sayest, 
"a  proof  sheet" — testimonial  strong  of  dear  remem- 
brance. I  hope  each  individual  of  the  family  is,  ere 
this,  restored  to  health.  In  your  welfare  I  have  near 
interest.  'Tis  pleasant  to  think  when  I  return,  I  may 
find  our  little  circle  unbroken — the  absent  links  again 
united  to  affection's  chain.  Notwithstanding  storm- 
cloud  without  and  indisposition  within  prevailed  and 
bore  away  many  a  moment  unmarked  by  enjoyment's 
impress,  still  I  rejoice  that  some  blossoms  were 
gathered,  and  that  some  beams  of  brightness  rested 
upon  thee  while  in   the  land  of  the  East.     I  trust,  on 


ANN    WILLSON.  117 

the  whole,  it   will  be   looked  upon  as  a   sunny  spot  in 
the  landscape  of  life,  and  surely 

**  Memory  draws  from  delight,  ere  it  dies, 
An  essence  that  breathes  of  it,  many  a  year." 

A  letter  from  cousin  M.  came  yesterday,  signifying 
her  intention  of  coming  to  spend  a  few  days  with  me 
at  Green  Brook.  It  is  very  comfortable  to  find  myself 
thought  of  and  queried  after  by  our  dear  Philadel- 
phians.  How  many  are  our  favors,  both  temporal  and 
spiritual !  May  we  build  an  altar,  and  offer  accept- 
able sacrifice  thereon. 

Anna. 


TO   I.    T.  AND  FAMILY. 

JVew  York,  1th  mo.  23,  1830. 
Beloveds  : — Will  the  stirrings  of  affection  be  as 
cordial  to  you  as  the  breezes  of  the  North  %  If  so,  let 
them  travel  to  the  South-land  together.  My  dear 
uncle's  tribute  was  gratefully  received,  and  touched 
the  chords  of  feeling  in  the  far-away  heart.  Mankind 
are  endowed  with  high  and  noble  capacities ;  and  I 
consider  it  a  truly  blessed  privilege  that  we  are  able, 
when  separated,  to  enjoy  mental  communion  ;  consist- 
ently therewith,  I  at  times  withdraw  from  the  busy 
scenes  of  this  moving  world,  gather  thought  home,  as 
being  my  own  little  governable  family,  and  exchange 
visits  with  you.  In  this  long  interim  of  personal  pre- 
sence 'tis  delightful  ;  tending  to  renew,  animate,  and 
refresh  the  spirits  of  the  wanderer,  who  is  now  settled, 
for  a  little  season,  with  the  loved  ones  of  Rivington 
street,  the  atmosphere  of  which  you  know  is  very  con- 


118 


FAMILIAR    LETTERS   OF 


genial  to  my  best  feelings.     Cousins  I.,  M.,  and  myself, 
left  the  country  early  Fourth  day  morning  ;  the  weather 
has   been   excessively    warm,   yet   have   we   journeyed 
through  the  green  fields  of  social  enjoyment  very  plea- 
santly, have  known  cousin  Deborah's  cottage  to  be  an 
abiding   place    of   kindness    and   comfort,    and    in  our 
labors  of  love  were  joined   by   them.      To  Anna  S.,  I 
paid  an  agreeable  visit,  proving  their  humble  tenement 
still  to  be  a  spot  where  feeling  and  affection  nestle  ;  'tis 
oft  the  resort  of  the  young,  as    well  as  comfortable  to 
the  old.     Your  stay  with  them  was  spoken  of  as  being 
quite  too  short  ;  receive  their  affectionate  remembrance. 
We  took   tea  with    W.  V.  and    sister,  who   dwell   with 
their  grandfather — a  farmer  of  83  ;  though  the  pressure 
of  so  many   years  is  upon  a  tall,  thin   frame,  yet  he  is 
vigorous  and  healthy ;  sits  under  the  Walnut  tree  of  his 
own  planting,  apparently  with  great  peace  and  content, 
whilst    its  waving    branches,   fanning  his    aged    form, 
renew  also  the  memory  of  gone-by   days,  when  he  and 
it  were  both  in  the  early  stage  of  life ;  he  can  still  walk 
to   Rahway,  a  distance  of  nine   miles,  without   fatigue, 
or  pausing  by  the  way.     We  were  greatly    interested 
in  some  few   memoirs  of  his  life  related    by   himself. 
While  there,  clouds  gathered,  and  a  sound  of  wind  and 
rain  came  rustling  from  the  mountain,  at  the  base  almost 
of    which    stands    this    tabernacle;    a    slight    shower 
sprinkled  the   earth  ;    then   the   rich    Iris    girdled    the 
canopy  of  Heaven.     Cousin   A.  A.  T.   would    have  en- 
joyed this  scene,  I  doubt  not  ;  how  oft  my  thoughts  are 
turned   towards    her   with  a   wish   for  participation  in 
all  that  is  worth  it  :  some  of  our  strolls  through  shaded, 
woody  puhs  would  have  been  too  toilsome  for  her,  yet 


ANN    WILLSON.  Il9 

would  I  have  brought  my  little  offering  from  nature's 
bountiful  garden,  the  nameless  blossom  or  wild  rose, 
(of  the  latter  there  is  an  abundance,  and  of  deeper  hue 
and  stronger  fragrance  than  I  recollect  hitherto  ;)  these, 
plucked  and  presented  by  the  hand  of  affection,  might 
be  a  partial  recompense  for  tarriance  in  the  tent.  Such 
as  endure  privation  I  would  have  receive  an  equal 
reward. 

ToS.  A.  W . 


Port  Elizabeth^  12t/i  mo.^  28. 
Nay,  my  dear  friend,  no  stronger,  dearer  or  holier 
ray  lights  my  earthly  pathway,  than  friendship  and 
sisterly  affection  ;  these  blend  and  mingle  their  efful- 
gence, as  do  the  silent  tapers  which  oft  light  up  with 
their  united  glow  the  comfortable  shealing  from  which 
Anna  now  sends  forth  her  thoughts,  heedless  of  the 
storm-cloud  that  has  shrouded  the  sun,  but  extends  not 
its  gloomy,  darkening  influence  o'er  the  mental  hemis- 
phere. Yes,  long  have  I  been  quiet,  but  its  occasion 
has  been  the  restraint  imposed  by  domestic  engage- 
ments, together  with  frequent  seasons  of  slight  indispo- 
sition ;  when  the  pressure  of  these  passed  by,  and 
health  and  spirits  (sympathetic  sisters)  regained  their 
elastic  spring,  the  time  lost  required  my  immediate 
entrance  into  the  busy  scenes.  From  our  beloved 
Islanders  I  have  not  received  an  epistolary  visit  in  a 
long  time;  therefore  all  the  intelligence  contained  in 
thy  precious  folio,  was  new,  pleasant,  and  satisfactory. 
I  rejoice  that  thou  hast  been  with  them,  and  right  gladly 
would  I  have  participated  in  your  social  delights,  and 
more  greatly  does  my  joy  abound  for  the  prevalence  of 


120  FAMILIAR   LETTERS    OF 

that  harmony  and  unity,  not  of  sentiment^  but  of  feeling 
and  affection ^\N\nch.  soars  above  all  wordy  strife,  having 
its  origin  in  that  charity,  without  which  all  profession 
is  truly  but  as  sounding  brass,  and  tinkling  cymbal. 
In  all  thy  wanderings  in  the  land  still  dear  to  Anna, 
did'st  thou  not,  my  beloved  friend,  full  oft  find  thy 
thoughts  reverting  to  days  long  gone,  reflecting  on 
earth's  variableness,  or  secretly  breathing  the  requiem 
of  "Auld  Lang  Syne."  The  "  Port"  has,  this  winter, 
with  a  few  exceptions,  been  a  spot  of  retirement ;  neither 
have  we  oft  enjoyed  the  family  tryste.  This  is  the  con- 
sequence of  bustle  and  business.  When  wearied  and 
worn,  T  have  sometimes  fled  to  "  next  door"  by  way  of 
a  cordial  j  'tis  to  me  a  paternal  mansion,  and  verily  I 
believe 

"  He  that  soothes  the  widow's  wo, 
Or  wipes  the  orphan's  tear  doth  know 
There's  something  here  of  heaven." 

I  have  no  prospect  of  going  beyond  home's  vicinity 
this  winter,  but  my  journeyings  are  frequently  so  sud- 
den and  unlooked  for,  even  to  self,  that  I  may  be  with 
you  J  be  this  as  it  will,  one  thing  I  know,  that  in  affection- 
ate attachment  I  still  am  thine  truly, 

A. 

To  S.  A.  W . 

Port  Elizabeth,  3d  mo.  oth,  1831. 
My  dear  Sally  Ann  :• — How  cordially  did  my  heart 
greet  the  fold  of  thy  love,  and  reciprocate  its  affectionate 
fervor  ;  treasures  and  rich  testimonials  let  others  value, 
I  ask  the  dearer  and  more  acceptable  gifts  of  genial 
thought  and  feeling,  flowing  from  a  mind  which  strong 
friendship  animates,  and  I  rejoice  that,  as  we  advance 


ANN    WILLfiON.  121 

in  life,  and  the   fascinations  of  visible  and  created  thin<y8 

o 

fade  in  ouf  view,  the  channel  of  love  deepens  and  more 
and  more  proves  itself  of  durable  and  amaranthine  nature. 
I  have  been,  throughout  the  winter,  quietly,  though  not 
idly,  nestled  in  the  enclosures  of  home.  My  dear  friend, 
though  we  may  oft  feel  as  if  no  good  thing  was  ours, 
I  yet  have  hope  that  we  shall  be  numbered  with  the 
heavenly  family,  rem.embeting  that  "  help  is  laid  upon 
One  who  is  mighty,"  and  able  to  save  to  the  uttermost  all 
whose  trust  U  in  Him,  I  counsel  thee  to  follow  every 
little  manifestation  of  duty,  and  desire  thy  success  in 
strengthening  and  instructing  the  youthful  mind,  though 
too  poor  both  in  ability  and  memory  to  aid  thee.  Dost 
thou  know  friend  M.  has  left  some  manuscripts  from  which 
memoirs  have  been  taken?  I  have  assisted  in  transcrib- 
ing, and  have  been  much  interested,  and  trust  encouraged 
too,  in  finding  that  He  who  was  the  Alpha,  has  also  beeq 
the  Omega  ;  that  He  not  only  putteth  forth  and  goetl] 
before,  but  is  likewise  the  rearward.  He  speaks  particu- 
larly of  plainness,  saying  simplicicity  of  education  has 
often  proved  a  hedge  of  preservation  to  many  from  much 
evil,  till  the  day  of  God's  salvation  hath  dawned  upon 
the  understanding,  and  brought  them  into  covenant  with 
Hiq,     ****** 

To  A.  A.  T , 

4t/t  mo.  1831. 
Art  thou,  beloved  Coz,  dwelling  in  the  land  of  vineyards, 
of  olives,  and  of  figs  ?  If  so,  sometimes  look  sympatheti- 
cally toward  those  whose  journey ings  are  still  in  the 
wilderness,  and  who  rejoice  when  now  and  then  enabled 
to  find  springs  of  water.  I  would  fain  have  been  with 
11 


i-22  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

you  at  the  Yearly  Gatherings,  peradventure  the  shadow 
of  some  one,  like  an  Apostle  passing  by,  might  have  con- 
tained healing  virtue.  We  knoM^,  according  to  our  little 
measure,  how  very  consoling  and  encouraging  is  inter- 
course of  spirit ;  then,  how  excellent,  how  far  surpassing 
all  earthly  communion  must  be  the  enjoyment  of  those 
whose  minds,  teeming  with  heavenly  illuminations,  visit, 
salute,  and  bid  each  other  good  speed  1  Is  not  this  a  fore- 
taste of  that  abiding  country  whose  walls  are  salvation 
and  whose  gates  are  praise  1  But  let  me  not  lead  thee 
into  my  path,  which  sometimes  seems  a  little  tribulated, 
doubtless  for  the  further  refinement  from  the  tin  or  repro- 
bate silver.  Thy  account  of  yesterday's  meeting  was 
very  interesting,  and  truly,  my  dear  cousin,  except  celes- 
tial dew  rest  upon  the  habitation,  all  temporal  blessings 
are  vain.  "That  which  is  wanting,  cannot  be  num- 
bered," ^  H:  *  *  * 

To  S.  A.  \V . 


5th  mo.  19M,  1831, 
My  Dear  Sally  Ann  : — Though  but  little  leisure  is 
now  afforded  for  the  exercise  of  the  pen,  still  a  tribute 
offering  is  friendship's  due;  constrainings  of  affection  also 
prompt  to  this  little  sacrifice,  for  though  dwelling  in  the 
inner  chambers  of  each  other's  hearts,  and  feeling  bound 
together  in  love,  yet  these  sensible  evidences,  are,  to  me, 
ever  a  cordial;  and  desiring  that  intercourse  may  be  free  and 
frequent,  our  minds  more  and  more  quickened  and  stirred 
up  in  the  way  of  one  another's  encouragement  and  advance 
in  Zion's  paths,  so  let  the  word  of  exhortation,  of  counsel, 
reproof,  or  sympathetic  feeling,  have  its  course  when 
communing  with  thy  friend  A.     To  me,  the  non-attendance 


ANN    WiLLSO.y.  \-2o 

of  the  Annual  Gathering,  was  a  deprivation,  for  I  would 
fain  be  in  waiting,  if  peradventure  the  stone  was  rolled 
avvay  from  the  well's  mouth,  I  too  might  enjoy  those 
refreshing  streams  which  go  forth  to  water  the  flocks. 
Let  us  hope,  there  were  those  who  returned  to  their 
respective  abodes  strengthened  and  animated,"  and  may 
the  breathing  petition  of  our  hearts  more  and  more  be, 
condescend,  oh  powerful  Helper,  "  to  be  with  the  thou* 
sands  .of  Israel"  !  There  is  one  Holy  Leader,  who  will 
guide  all  dependant  ones  safely  onward.  Through  all 
tumults  and  commotions  Jerusalem  remains  to  be  a  quiet 
habitation.  Seek,  thou,  to  be  a  dweller  there,  oh  my 
soul  I  My  idle  seasons  are  few  thou  wilt  readily  con* 
elude,  when  I  tell  thee,  according  to  a  late  census,  we 
count  one  more  in  the  family  roll.  An  Edward  the  first, 
claims  title  page.  Are  we  not  growing  rich  in  living 
treasures  1  In  days  gone  by,  thou  knowest*  those  who 
abounded  in  flocks  and  herds,  sons  and  daughters,  were 
the  honorable  of  the  earth,  and  though  times  have 
somewhat  altered,  and  the  notions  of  the  present  era,  not 
exalted  in  this  way,  still  I  am  willing  to  consider  parents 
as  governors  of  a  little  kingdom,  most  certainly  occupying 
posts  of  eminence  and  trust.  Notwithstanding  this  last  link 
makes  a  surplus  and  unevens  our  number,  I  do  not  see  but 
that  the  fairy  being  is  received  with  as  much  cordiality  as 
if  he  were  the  only  junior  among  us.  How  bountifully 
nature  provides  for  all.  The  heart  is  a  focus,  and  the 
rays  of  affection  are  only  increased.         *         *         ^ 


124  FAMILIAR    LETTEPwS    OF 

Jo  A,  Ji,j  and  H.  T.,  when  from  home  on  account  of  the 
indisposition  of  the  latter. 

Port  Elizabeth  lOlk  mo.,  1831. 

Dear  Cousins  : — Like  the  cheering  sound  of  turtle  or 
early  songster,  after  a  long  wintry  season,  is  the  prospect 
of  renovated  health  and  strength,  nay  sisters;  The  perusal 
of  to-day's  Herald  brought  the  tear-drop  3  there  is  a  glad- 
1  ess  mingled  with  our  sorroW  and  sympathy  which  seems 
like  the  healing  of  bitter  herbs ;  though  we  shrink  from 
lasting  the  cup,  it  proves  our  cordial- — hope  and  faith 
agc.in  touch  the  strings  of  the  heart,  and  the  effect  is  a 
thrill  of  joy.  Let  us,  then,  humbly  present  a  thank-offer- 
ing to  the  Giver  of  every  good,  in  that  blessings,  inesti- 
mable blessings,  are  meted  and  metitig.  I  have  just  had 
an  invite  to  join  the  dear  ones  of  ''  next  door,"  but  did  not 
feel  quite  free  to  do  so  'till  I  had  first  paid  a  written  visit, 
for  though  the  offerings  of  love  are  not  compulsive,  yet 
they  are  mpulsive  ;  and  most  willingly  would  Anna  shake 
the  kaleidescope,  could  she  thereby  present  an  interesting 
view ;  but  so  unvaried,  save  by  the  routine  of  domestic 
affairs,  is  our  pathway,  that  from  my  paper  can  be  gathered 
little  more  than  the  welfare  of  home  and  its  environs;  yet 
I  am  encouraged  to  present  it  from  the  experimental 
knowledge  that  all  events,  even  the  most  trivial,  are  en- 
deared by  locality.  Yes,  there  is  a  hallowed  attachment, 
a  charm  to  the  vicinity  of  home,  belonging  to  no  other 
portion  of  the  globe,  which  creates  an  atmosphere  of 
kindly  and  affectionate  feelings  that  the  heart  most  delights 
to  dwell  in.  To  you,  beloveds,  I  would  fain  be  a  sister  as 
truly  as  if  united  by  the  ties  of  nature.  I  would  not  even 
in  this  way  be  burdensome,  yet  if  my  poor  scrawls  con- 


ANN    V/ILLSOX.  125 

tribute  to  cheer,  I  shall  be  content.  You  need  not  be  told 
that  your  absence  is  a  great  breach  in  the  family  ring.  I 
hope  winter  may  and  will  gather  us  once  again  to  the 
home-fireside. 

"  When  kind  friends  are  vanished, 
And  loved  ones  are  flown, 
Oh  who  would  inhabit 
This  bleak  world  alone." 

To  S.  A.  W 


Port  Elizabeth,  3d  mo.  9th,  1832. 
My  Dear  S.  : — Anna's  heart  would  incline  her  to  yield 
to  thy  little  request  of  an  ever\^  day  offering  ;  small,  did  I 
say?  Yes,  in  itself;  but  great  when  surveyed  in  its  full 
extent,  taxing  thy  attention  to  the  uninteresting  though 
comfortable  tenor  of  an  even  way,  undimpled  as  our 
stream  is  by  uncommon  occurrences  ;  the  excitement  of 
deep  sympathy  or  overwhelming  joy,  the  lights  and 
shades  of  life  are  so  blended,  and  their  hues  so  lost  in  one 
another,  as  to  keep  a  smooth  and  almost  changeless  surface. 
There  is,  to  be  sure,  a  mirror  for  the  mind  on  which 
thoughts  may  cast  a  correct  reflection ;  but  even  this 
would  only  convey  to  thy  sight  what  thou  art  already 
sensible  of,  the  enduring  friendship,  the  living,  though 
softly  flowing  waters  of  affection. 

We  have  of  late  been  permitted,  oftener  than  usual^ 
to  be  solemnly  assembled,  to  know  a  dipping  together 
into  the  same  cup — a  being  baptized  with  the  same 
baptism.  May  the  labors  of  the  exercised,  of  what- 
ever name  or  sentiment,  whose  hearts  have  been  touched 
with  the  «'  live  coal "  be  blessed  ;  for  when  "  Zion  travail- 
eth,  she  bringeth  forth  "  increase,  to  the  praise  of  the 
11* 


12G  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

mighty  and  eternally  powerful  Helper  of  his  people.  I 
call  all  such  who  love  and  abide  in  His  law.  We  may 
remember  He  himself  said,  "ye  are  my  friends,  if  ye  do 
whatsoever  I  command  you  ;"  and  if  friends  to  Him,  surely 
so  to  all  his  creation.  Let  us,  my  dear  Sally  Ann,  seek 
not  to  be  brought  into  this  or  that  opinion,  but  to  have  our- 
selves thoroughly  purified  from  *'  the  tin,  the  dross,  and 
the  reprobate  silver,"  that  so  the  love  of  God  may  be  more 
abundantly  shed  abroad  in  our  hearts.  I  have  known,  in 
little  measure,  this  holy,  heavenly  influence,  when  gathered 
at  different  times  with  the  various  sects  in  our  borders? 
and  found  that  its  effect  was  ti-uly  harmonious.  We  have 
been  instrumentally,  and  I  trust  sometimes  more  imme- 
diately ministfered  unto.  P.  C,  who  believes  herself 
fc^Ued  to  traverse  parts  of  the  earth,  is  with  us ;  her  heart 
appears  to  embrace  all  in  the  sisterly  bond  of  heavenly 
fellowship  ;  lays  the  bars  of  sectarianism  low,  and  as  she 
said  on  First  day,  longs  to  behold  the  congregation  of  the 
Lord  arising  from  among  all  nations,  names  and  people, 
and  uniting  in  the  one  true  church,  which,  as  of  old, 
would  be  seen  coming  out  of  the  wilderness,  leaning  on  its 
beloved. 

1  have  had  a  very  delightful  ride  to  "  the  Cape,"  with 
brother  I.  We  met  our  Friends  there,  and  attended  with 
them  several  interesting  meetings,  among  an  open,  tender 
spirited  people,  to  whom  I  felt  nearly  united  in  that  "feel- 
ing which  has  no  fellow,"  On  our  way  there,  I  saw  a  fox, 
for  the  first  time  ;  but  the  nimble  footed  animal  would  not 
exercise  much  sociability,  for  on  our  approach  he  darted 
away  to  his  home  in  the  wood.  We  were  also  informed 
of  the  destructiveness  of  bears  among  the  flocks,  which 
produced  a   kind  of  new  country  feeling  in  me,  and  I 


ANN    WILLSON.  127 

could  almost  fancy  it  was  the  dwelling  place  of  the  injured 
Indian,  as  well  as  wild  inhabitant  of  the  fotest.  The  ap- 
pearance and  customs  of  the  people  here  were  very  patri' 
archal }  in  one  thing  only  they  seemed  extravagant — large 
fires  and  a  waste  of  fuel.  Thou,  my  beloved  friend,  would, 
I  doubt  not,  have  felt  this  in  a  two-fold  sense ;  having 
been  witness  to  the  miseries  of  want  in  your  metropolis ; 
but,  how  comfortable  is  the  remembrance,  that  the  v^idow's 
mite  was  equal,  nay  greater,  than  the  rich  man's  much. 
May  we  then  encouragingly  continue  our  little  endeavors 
to  meliorate  the  condition  of  suffering  humanity ;  and  I 
trust  we  shall  accumulate  treasure  abbV'e.  Already  is  the 
animation  and  activity  of  the  vernal  season  commencing; 
the  frog,  earliest  harbinger  of  spring,  sends  forth  his  harsh 
note  of  gladness  ;  winged  ones  are  breathing  melodiously  ; 
the  sun  looks  abroad  in  mildness,  and  its  fertilizing  influence 
enters  earth's  surface,  causes  the  concealed  plant  to  spring 
up,  and  offer  its  budding  tribute  to  this  heaven-born  beam. 
Hyacinths,  daffodils,  and  the  like,  are  pleasant  tokens  of 
warmer  months,  and  these  touches  of  life  are  interesting 
lines  in  the  book  of  Nature,  causing  sensations  of  gratitude 
to  that  Invisible  Fountain  of  goodness,  who  thus  diffuseth 
His  gifts,  and  abilitateth  richly  to  enjoy.  And  dost  thou, 
my  friend,  with  me,  mark  the  increased  rapidity  of  each 
annual  round?  Time's  foot  lags  not,  but  with  the  same 
strong  and  unhesitating  step  he  continues  his  right  onward 
march,  bearing  the  finite,  but  noblest  part  of  creation,  with 
the  unreturning  current  toward  the  sea  of  eternity. — 
Solemn  thought!  and  yet  undisturbing,  when  we  feel  the 
celestial  rays  from  the  Sun  of  Righteousness  illuminating 
our  hearts  and  gradually  producing  that  eternal  day  for 
which  "  all  other  davs  were  made." 

A. 


128  FAMILIAR    LETTERS  OF 

To  L.  S . 

bill  ?no.  IS 32. 

My  Dear  L. — Think  not  thou  dwellest  in  the  low 
lands  alone  ;  ah  no  I  1  anri  companion  of  thy  destitute 
state,  and  thought  as  I  sat  with  the  assembly  to-day,  that 
one  crumb  of  sustaining  food  would  be  grateful  to  my 
soul ;  but  let  us  trust  that  He  who  knows  best  what  is 
best  for  us  will  not  suffer  us  to  faint,  or  give  out  by  the 
way  ;  but  when  the  creature  is  sufficiently  prostrated, 
will,  methinks,  extend  the  sceptre  of  His  love,  whereby 
we  shall  be  emboldened  to  arise  ;  and  when  the  heart  is 
a  little  touched  because  of  finding  favor  in  the  King's 
sight,  how  greatly  does  it  increase  the  desire  to  be  invited 
into  the  banqueting  house  1  We  read,  at  the  time  of  the 
marriage  in  Cana  of  Galilee,  the  mother  of  Jesus  was 
there,  and  that  he  also  was  present ;  but  there  was  no 
wine,  and  it  was  not  till  the  water  pots  were  filled  to  the 
brim  with  water  (or  weakness,)  that  the  miracle  was 
wrought,  and  direction  given  to  draw  out  and  bear  unto 
the  govei-nor  of  the  feast. 

A  few  lines  from  E.  P.,  yesterday,  were  very  comforta- 
ble to  me,  evidencing  that  invisible  affinity  which  is  based 
only  on  the  unchangeable  truth ;  proving,  also,  that  there 
are  those  disposed  to  obey  the  injunction,  "  be  ye  one 
another's  helpers,"  &c.  I  value  social  intercourse 
greatly,  but  estimate  yet  more  religious  fellowship  ;  and 
have  at  this  season  instructively  remembered  the  descrip- 
tion of  the  beatified  familj' — that  it  was  the  "  voice  of 
much  people  in  heaven,"  whose  harmonious  utterance 
was,  "  salvation  and  glory,  honor  and  power."  Oh,  my 
friend,  what  sublunary  good,  what  terrestrial  delight  can 


ANN    WILLSON.  129 

balance  the  precious  inheritance  of  that  peace  which 
passeih  understanding,  and  abilitateth  the  purified  heart  to 
unite  in  the  paean  of  praise  to  Him  Who  sitteth  upon  the 
throne,  and  to  the  Lamb  who  is  eternally  worthy! 

Anna. 

To  L.  S— . 


Port  Elizabeth,  eth  mO.  5th,  1832. 
My  Dear.  Lydia  : — Well  I  know  that  words  possess 
but  little  healing  virtue,  and  yet  I  think  I  have,  in  days 
of  sadness  or  sorrow,  felt  their  comforting,  consoling  effi- 
cacy 5  therefore  am  not  willing  longer  to  suppress  the 
sympathetic  current.  We  have  but  lately  heard  that  from 
your  Parterre  is  removed  an  infantile  bud,  and  as  I 
look  upon  the  scions  within  our  own  enclosures,  a  kind  of 
parental  feeling  arises,  which  prompts  expression  ;  even 
this  animated  treasure  is  not  ours  alone,  but  jewels  of  His 
cabinet,  who  giveth  and  taketh.  And  shall  He  not  do 
what  He  will  with  his  own  ?  When  We  considei:  the  va- 
rious changes  of  life  and  its  uncertain  tenure,  together 
with  the  multiplicity  of  infirmities  and  ailments  to  which 
the  earthly  tenement  is  subject,  we  might,  with  one  of  old> 
conclude  that  "sighs  w^ould  sooner  fail  than  cause  to 
sigh."  Yet  I  am  not  willing  to  dwell  upon  the  shady  side 
of  the  picture,  believing  an  Eden  was  and  is  designed  to  be 
our  inheritance  even  here,  did  we  more  resign  and  adapt 
ourselves  to  all  dispensations.         *         *         *         * 

To  M.  S- -. 


Port  Elizabeth,  lih  mo.  iSth,  1832. 
Deaei  Ones: — Though  I  deem  our  affection  of  a  more 
durable  nature  than     the  wordy  basis,  yet  surely    from 


130  FAMIMAR    LETTERS    OF 

the  aboundings  of  the  heart  the  mouth  speaketh;  and  well 
I  know  expression  has  an  animating  tendency,  and  oft 
proves  like  a  seal  set  to  remembrance*  In  this  season  of 
calamity*  my  thoughts  are  almost  continually  with  you,  in 
that  nearness  which  is  not,  I  trust,  founded  only  on  the  ties 
of  consanguinity,  but  the  still  closer  relationship  of  kin- 
dred minds.  The  tenure  of  existence  is  always  uncertain, 
and  I  have  of  late  believed  it  mattered  but  little  what  were 
life's  date,  if  its  pages  could  be  kept  unsullied  by  evil  ; 
yet  these  frail  tenements,  in  which  we  have  been  accus- 
tomed to  move,  to  act  and  to  cling,  when  storms  of  dis- 
ease and  dismay  are  in  our  borders,  we  find  are  still 
dear  to  us,  and  we  cannot  but  seek  their  preservation  and 
protection.  But  why  flee, or  whither,  when  floods  encom- 
pass the  whole  earth  ?  Rather,  like  Noah,  listen  to  direc- 
tions for  forming  the  ark — the  only  place  of  safety  during 
deluge — in  which  doubtless  all  such  would  be  instructed 
to  go,  as  by  attention  and  obedience  had  become  His  family. 
I  speak  not  these  things  thinking  that  fear  has  taken  pos- 
session of  5^our  minds,  or  that  aught  I  might  say  would 
avail  any  thing-  but  as  thoughts  arose,  simply  penned 
them.  Our  conversation  oft  turns  on  the  inhabitants  of 
the  isle,  with  solicitude  and  concern;  therefore  let  me  re- 
quest and  hope  for  the  grant  of  very  frequent  communica- 
tions, provided  there  be  no  risks  attendant  on  lodging  them 
in  the  office.  Of  the  general  state  of  things,  we  are  to  be 
sure  informed  by  the  public  folios,  but  these  are  not  so 
satisfying  where  there  is  individual  anxiety,        "^        * 

In   this  season   of  danger  Anna   greatly   desires   your 
presence. 

*  Cholera. 


ANN    WILLSO-N'.  131 


To  D.  V- 


Port  Elizabeth,  1th  mo.  ISth,  1832. 
My  dear  Cousins  : — No  afflictions  are,  for  the  present, 
joyous,  our  hearts  will  acknowledge;  and  yet  I  think  the 
time  n:iay  arrive  when  both  you  and  I  will  find  they 
have  a  tendency  to  weaken  terrestrial  attachments, 
wean  us  from  pleasant  earthly  rests,  and  little  by  little 
prepare  the  soul  for  an  exceeding  and  eternal  weight 
of  glory.  The  thoughts  of  this  heart  have  sympa- 
thetically mingled  in  your  late  sorrow,  secretly  visiting 
the  bereaved  habitation,  knowing  it  must  feel  solitary 
and  desolate,  even  in  the  midst  of  inmates,  so  much  is 
the  mind  apt  to  lean  towards  its  loss,  to  consider  the 
fountains  of  happiness  broken  up,  and  that  no  streanjs 
of  enjoyment  will  henceforth  flow  for  our  refreshment. 
Yet,  raa^y  not  this  prove  a  profitable  season,  a  time  in 
which  we  perceive  thEit  we  are  but  poor  wayfarers,  who 
were  in  danger  of  stopping  short  of  the  goodly  land  \ 
To  me  'twas  very  comforting,  and  to  you,  doubtless, 
cause  of  great  consolation,  that  the  prospect  of  dissolu- 
tion was  unaccompanied  by  any  thing  that  maketh 
afraid  ;  and  as  'tis  the  end  that  crowns  all,  what  can  be 
more  desirable,  either  for  ourselves  or  those  we  Jove, 
than  a  triumphant  close;  to  feel  that  an  entrance  will  be 
afforded  into  that  better  and  more  blissful  country,  of 
which,  while  here,  we  can  only  have  a  Pisgah  view  1 
When  you  are  sufficiently  composed  in  thought  and 
feeling,  and  have  acquired  a  little  renewed  strength,  let 
me  hear  the  particulars  more  fully,  remembering  that, 
though  distant,*!  am  not  the  less  interested.       Oh,  my 


I'S'Z  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

cousins,  that  our  chief  qngagennent  arid  concern  might 
be,  the  faithful  discharge  of  our  twofold  duties  ;  then 
should  we  be  enabled  to  render  unto  Ceasar  the  things 
that  are  his,  and  unto  God  the  dedication  which  is  His 
due.  This  being  the  case,  He  who  has  promised  to  be 
husband  to  the  widow,  and  parent  to  the  fatherless, 
would  not  be  lacking  in  His  faithfulness.       *        *       * 

We  have  had  very  dry,  warm  weather,  till  within  a 
few  days  ;  'tis  now  cooler  and  more  showery  ;  but  our 
gardens  suffer  much.  How  often  we  are  taught  to  see 
our  dependence,  when,  for  a  little  season,  salutary 
breezes  and  enlivening  rains  are  withheld  from  the  soil; 
but  oh  !  how  much  more  acute,  more  deep  and  heartfelt 
is  this  state,  when  it  becomes  the  experience  of  the  mind; 
no  descendings  of  heavenly  good,  no  celestial  moisture 
resting  upon  our  habitation.  Even  in  this  tried  time, 
let  u?  trpstj  renienibering  the  language  of  one  formerly, 
"  though  nq  fruit  be  on  the  vine,  nor  herd  in  the  stalls, 
yet  will  I  confide,"  &;c.  In  such  affection  as  seeketh  to 
alleviate,  and  wpuld  in  all  your  sorrows  be  sharer,  I 
conclude.  A. 

To  S.  A.  W— . 


Port  Elizabeth,  9th  mo.  5th,  1832. 
My  DEAR  Friend  : — We  have  now  entered  the  borders 
of  a  season  which  peculiarly  marks  the  year's  decline  ; 
yet,  however  much  verdure  and  foliage  may  suffer  from 
its  gathering  influence,  hearts  will  not,  I  trust,  be  sub- 
ject to  autumnal  sway ;  but  bound  together  in  the 
covenant,  witness  affection's  leaf  neither  to  fade  nor  fall. 
Already  do  we  begin  to  congregate  round  that  useful 
little  piece  of  furniture  which  acts  not  only  as  an  illu- 


ANxN    WILLSQN,  133 

minator,  but  is  also  the  promoter  of  intelligence  and 
social  industry.  The  poet  has  anticipated  me  in  the 
language  of  "  return  sweet  evening,  and  continue  long  ;'' 
'tis  a  delightful  portion  of  time,  and  were  faithful  re- 
cords kept,  would,  methinks,  exhibit  as  large  a  share  of 
enjoyment  as  any  in  the  diurnal  round.  The  forces  of 
the  two  families  unitedly  have  greatly  refreshed  me  to 
night ;  but  that  the  absent  may  not  be  supposed  to  be 
obscured  in  the  present,  and  memory  not  trustworthy, 
let  me  tell  thee  thou  wert  in  the  circle  of  thought,  if  not 
able  to  listen  to  its  chattering  interpreter.  There  is  a 
charm  about  colloquial  pleasures,  and  the  chain  of  feel- 
ing is  brightened  and  more  highly  polished  by  its  aid, 
provided  the  stream  of  converse  be  pure  and  sanctified. 
Truth  is  ever  a  refiner,  and  were  it  always  suffered  to 
be  a  filterer,  nothing  corroding  or  corrupting  would  es- 
cape us.  Thine  was  as  a  little  '-brook  by  the  way,"  a 
comfortable  evidence  of  unfailing  remembrance,  and 
what  is  more  consolatory  than  companionship  through 
all  life's  varyings  1  Methinks,  none  of  earth's  gifts  ; 
and  while  we  greatly  value  this  attachment  of  perish- 
able frames,  as  the  best  of  mutable  things,  we  can  only 
rejoice  in  that  union  and  kindredship  of  spirits  by  which 
we  are  a  little  capacitated  to  join  the  beatified  family, 
whose  harmonious  utterance  is  salvation  and  glory, 
honor  and  power.  Countless  temporal  favors  are  mine, 
and  I  would  that  in  addition  to  a  sense  thereof,  gratitude 
might  arise  as  incense  acceptable  ;  but,  alas  !  like  thee, 
I  have  no  might ;  indeed,  my  dwelling  place  continues 
lowly.  Bowed  under  manifold  infirmities,  I  sometimes 
feel  as  if  waiting,  when  the  waters  were  troubled,  for 
some  one  to  immerse  me  in  the  healing  pool,  perhaps 
1-i 


134<  FAMILIAR    LETTERS   OF 

not  sufficiently  regarding  the  command,  "Rise,  take  up 
thy  bed  and  walk  j"  thus  strength  might  be  experienced 
to  move  onward,  bearing  the  couch  of  weaknesses.  It 
would  seem  no  mark  of  kindness,  my  dear  S.,  to  make 
thy  mind  a  participator  in  the  discouragements  of  mine, 
and  yet  it  is  surely  friend-like,  to  share  ail  winds  and 
weather.  Expression  is  a  relief,  and  is  sometimes  edi- 
fying and  profitable,  if  to  go  to  the  house  of  mourning 
be  better  than  to  visit  that  of  feasting;  and  we  may  also 
remember  in  the  journey  to  Emmaus,  'twas  while  the 
disciples  were  communing  together  in  sadness  that  he 
condescended  to  draw  near  and  instruct  them.  I  am 
not  surprised  that  thy  sympathjr  and  commiseration 
should  have  been  deeply  exercised,  and  I  doubt  not 
many  a  secret  breathing  has  been  like  unto,  "  Spare  the 
people,  oh  Lord  !  until  penitence  shall  have  wrought 
for  them  a  passport  of  peace."  I  rejoice  in  looking  over 
the  weekly  folios  to  find  health  is  restoring  her  blessings 
to  both  cities.  The  Island  Metropolis  has  been  severely 
visited. 

Please  yield  to  the  very  first  impulse  to  speak  again 
to  thy  strongly  attached  Anna. 


TO    HER    SISTER. 

Port  Elizabeth,  \Oth  mo.  Sth,  1832. 
The  Sabbath  meal,  my  dear  sister,  has  been  eaten  in 
company,  and  I  believe  I  might  add  with  gladness  and 
singleness  of  heart ;  and  now  I  absent  myself  from  the 
loved  family  assemblage  to  follow  the  willings  of  thought, 
which  strongly  and  affectionately  visit  thee — and  not 
thee  only,  but  those  also  among  whom  thou  art  cast,  in 


ANN    WILLSOxN.  135 

the  allotment  of  love.  To  present  myself  a  little  while 
'mid  the  circle  of  kindred  and  friends,  and  experience 
like  thee,  reciprocity  of  endearment,  would  be  pleasant, 
but  I  am  persuaded  the  time  for  me  has  not  fully  come  ; 
therefore  will  I  dwell  a  little  longer  with  the  valued  gift 
of  remembrance,  a  portion  of  svhich  I  desire  may  be 
offered  to  each  and  every  of  them  ;  and  I  hope  my 
sister  will  not  suffer  her  enjoyment  to  be  in  the  least 
marred  by  any  uneasiness  about  home,  for  strength  is 
with  those  that  deal  prudently,  and  though  I  shall  rejoice 
in  the  return  season,  yet  would  not  hasten  it  one  hour, 
because  we  get  along  comfortably.  Industry  still  pre- 
vails at  the  parentage  ;  the  very  genial  feelings  of  daugh- 
ter and  sister  are  so  manifest  and  abundant,  that  I  have 
oft  in  grateful  breathings  of  heart,  witnessed  something 
like  setting  up  my  Ebenezer.  Uncle  I.,  cousin  S.,  and 
brother  Isaac,  have  been  woods-men,  almost  continually 
for  several  days.  Yesterday,  at  the  close  of  their  labors, 
I  was  favored  with  the  gathering  round  our  fireside, 
and  to  me  it  is  delightful  thus  to  rally  the  forces,  and 
exercise  the  cheering  gift  of  speech,  without  which 
many  a  gem  of  thought  would  lie  as  in  ocean-depths. 
We  remembered  the  lacking  links,  and  would  gladly, 
for  the  time  being,  have  perfected  the  chain  ;  but  I  trust 
thou  wilt  come  again  to  us  with  much  satisfaction  in 
the  performance  of  this  journey. 

Our  yard  is  still  brightening  in  beauty,  as  Autumn 
calls  forth  its  flowery  family  ;  and,  to  me,  they  are  not 
only  testimony-bearers  of  the  power  and  purpose  of  All- 
creative  Energy,  but  sometimes  ministers  also  of  con- 
solation and  encouragement,  by  reviving  the  language. 


136  FAMILIAR    LETTERS   OV 

"  If  He  so  clothe  the  grass  of  the  field,  which  to  day  is, 
and  to  morrow  is  cast  into  the  oven,  shall  He  not  much 
more  clothe  you,  oh  ye  of  little  faith  1" 

In  aloundings  of  love  to  all  the  dear  ones,  I  conclude. 

To  S.  A.  W— . 


12th  mo.  25t/i,  1832. 
My  Dear  Friend  : — While  many  are  devoting  this  sea- 
son to  noisy  merriment,  can  it  be  better  occupied  by 
Anna,  or  more  consistently  with  its  title  of  a  "  holy  day  " 
than  to  retire  to  the  little  sanctuary  of  the  heart,  and 
touching  the  chords  of  memory,  gather  loved  ones  there, 
that  so  there  may  be,  even  in  this  seclusion,  a  social  cele- 
bration;  a  spirit  enlivened  and  animated  by  recollection 
of  the  past  and  thoughts  of  the  future,  desiring  all  may 
eventuate,  like  that  natal  period,  in  "  Glory  to  God  in 
the  highest,  peace  on  earth,  good  will  to  men."  The 
late  visit  to  you,  rests  with  pleasant  savor  on  my  mind. 
Surely,  poor  weak  pilgrims  who  go  slowly,  and,  as  it 
w^ere,  limping  on  their  way,  yet  with  faces  set  towards 
the  Heavenly  City,  may,  by  communion,  be  a  little  stimu- 
lated in  their  feeble  endeavoi-s,  and  stirred  up  to  increas- 
ing diligence,  in  accordance  with  apostolic  counsel  of 
provoking  "  one  another  to  good  works."  Sister  has  had  a 
stirring  week;  storing  aWay  winter  provender,  making 
savory  m.eat,  and  the  like,  are  not  light  jobs  ;  nearly  all 
is  now  performed  to  satisfaction,  and  the  fruit  of  the  labor 
will,  I  suppose,  be  enjoyed,  Were  we  as  careful  to  seek 
food  and  raiment  for  the  imperishable  part,  would  not 
peace  as  well  as  plenty,  fill  the  spiritual  storehouse? 
But  I  oft  fear  our  strivings  are  too  much  after  corruptible 


ANN    WILLSON.  137 

treasure.     I  was  much  interested  with  the  closing  stanza 
of  a  piece  in  the  Post : 

"  Children,  time  is  a  fleeting  day — 

The  brighter  its  joys,  the  sooner  away, 

Look  to  the  mansion,  and  seek  the  crown 

That  shall  not  decay  when  the  sun  goes  down.'* 

This  is  a  delightful  sunn}'  day ;  winter  is  apparently 
reposing  with  all  its  elemental  host,  and  permittino^  us  to 
look  abroad  without  a  frown  or  shiver.  Uncle  T.  came 
in  just  now  with  an  invitation  for  me  to  walk  down  the 
Willowed  way  with  him,  and  make  a  call  upon  some  of 
our  friends  ;  but,  my  thoughts  strongly  wending  towards 
P.,  I  declined,  preferring  communion  with  thee.  We 
have  been  much  interested  in  the  life  of  Wilson,  the 
Ornithologist ;  how  many  difficulties  and  hardships  he 
encountered  to  read  the  book  of  nature,  and  benefit  the 
human  family  by  his  researches. 

The  effusions  of  thy  pen  would  be  very  gladly  received 
by  thy  friend  Anna. 

To  M.  S . 


Port  Elizabeth,  1  mo.  i2t/i,  1833. 
The  fleecy  storm  has  whitened  our  earth,  and  produced 
a  feeling  like  keeping  within  the  tent ;  yet  thought, 
whose  journeyings  are  invisible,  need  not  be  subject  to 
the  varyings  of  weather,  but  afresh  plume  the  wing  for  a 
visit  of  love.  Are  you  too  much  engrossed,  my  dear 
cozzies,  to  perceive  Anna's  coming  by  making  place  for 
her  beside  your  bonny  ingle,  while  like  a  neighbor  step- 
ping in  to  stop  a  bit,  she  tells  of  the  weal  of  her  house- 
hold and  the  many  little  items  in    which  one's  own  head, 

hands  and   heart  are  concerned  ?     Listen,  then,  for  I  have 

12* 


138  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

but  short  time  for  tarriance  in  the  Island-land,  having  not 
much  more  than  fallen  back  into  my  accustomed  engage- 
ments of  seamstress,  preceptress,  &c.,  since  found  inthetrain 
of  some  travelling  friends  on  the  "Cape;"  'tv^'as  not  only  a 
privilege  butj  I  trust,  an  edifying  season*  The  individuals 
alluded  to  Were  from  Mount  Holly  Monthly  Meeting — 
E.  C.  and  others.  The  former  not  content  to  remain  in 
the  ceiled  habitation,  vi'hile  the  house  of  the  Most  High 
lay  vi^aste ;  and  she  doubtless  experiences  the  approval  of, 
thou  doest  Well  that  'tis  in  thine  heart  to  build,  &c.,  and 
1  consider  it  cause  of  gratitude  that  bread  continues  to  be 
blessed,  and  handed  to  the  disciples  to  distribute  to  the 
multitude.  They  were  also  very  pleasant  social  compa- 
nions, proving  that  He  whom  they  served  was  not  a  hard 
master  ;  that  neither  grace,  glory,  nor  any  good  thing  was 
withheld  from  those  who  truly  love  Him.  This  is  the 
second  time  I  have  been  numbered  v.ith  the  small  gather- 
ing in  that  antique  and  decaying  temple,  dedicated  to 
fellow  professors,  in  the  nethermost  part  of  our  borders. 
The  weather  was  mild,  and  the  journey  much  enjoyed  by 
me,  for  what  eye  can  look  on  the  profusion  of  verdure 
still  adorning  our  woods,  nor  feel  that  even  the  sandy  soil 
has  its  redeeming  feature  1  *         *         *         * 

I  regret  that,  with  friendly  profession,  its  spirit  should 
not  more  abundantly  prevail,  not  only  with  you,  but 
among  us  all ;  that  so  the  rights  of  Quakerism  might  be 
proved  by  the  fruits  of  peace,  love  and  good  will,  wherein 
each  not  only  seeks  his  own  but  others'  good  ;  more  and 
more  forwarding  that  happy  season  spoken  of  by  the 
poet,  in  which  "  rivers  of  gladness  water  all  the  earth, 
and  clothe  all  climes  with  beauty  ;  the  garden  fears  no 
blight,  and  needs  no  fence,  for  there  is  none  to   covet — 


ANN    WILLSON.  139 

all  are  full — the  lion,  and  the  leopard,  and  the  bear,  graze 
with  the  fearless  flocks ;  all  bask  at  noon  together,  or  all 
gambol  in  the  shade  of  the  same  grove,  and  drink  one 
common  stream." 

Your  ardently  attached  cousin,  A. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Port  Elizabeth,  Mh  mo.  4M,  1833. 

My  dear  Friend  : — One  badge  of  discipleship  is,  I 
trust,  in  good  degree  ours,  "  by  this  shall  all  men  know," 
&c.,  and  'tis  to  me  a  comfortable  feeling,  and  productive 
of  a  little  grain  of  hope^  that  we  shall  yet  have  spirit-room 
in  the  celestial  land,  v/here  nought  but  love  and  harmony 
prevail.  '« In  my  father's  house  are  many  mansions,  and 
I  go  to  prepare  a  place  for  you."  Oh,  may  we  never 
frustrate  what  follows :  ''  and  if  I  go,  I  will  come  again, 
and  receive  you  unto  myself,  that  where  I  am  there  ye 
may  be  also." 

Thy  interesting  messenger  came,  and  found  for  its  con- 
tents a  cordial  and  recipient  heart,  and  though  I  now  re- 
sort to  our  feathery  agent,  by  which  the  absent  are  best 
able  to  accelerate  and  promote  intercourse  and  endear- 
ment, the  preciousness  of  which  I  think  I  appreciate,  'tis 
not  with  a  prospect  of  an  adequate  return,  because  capacity 
as  well  as  time  is  wanting^  but  simply  by  this  early  reply 
to  prove  its  acceptability,  as  well  as  inform  thee  of  our 
present  faring.  I  am  like  a  clerk  appointed  for  a  day,  and 
must  therefore  attend  strictly  to  mine  office,  '<  for  if,  there- 
fore, ye  have  not  been  faithful  in  the  unrighteous  mam- 
mon, who  will  commit  to  your  trust  the  true  riches  ?"  It 
is  not  a  very  light  matter  to  preside  in  a  family  of  teiij 


140  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

and  combine  together  the  mistress,  sister,  aunt,  and  mother. 
Strangers,  too,  require  particular  notice  ;  thus  is  it  with 
our  little  Margaret  S.,  a  pretty  dimpled-chin  and  blue- 
eyed  cherub,  called  by  grandfather  beautiful.  Make  due 
allowance  for  eyes  like  ours;  'tis  a  propensity,  thou 
knowest,  with  some  to  rate  animated  gems  high. 

Thy  floral  offering  was  gratefully  received,  and  much 
increased  in  value  because  of  the  donor.  I  hope  thou 
wilt  visit  it  in  its  rural  retreat ;  we  are  annually  making 
some  little  additions  and  improvements  in  our  sunny  clear- 
ing. Could  the  advances  within  keep  pace  with  the  tem- 
poral habitation,  I  should  be  encouraged  to  believe  we 
were  comfortably  progressing,  bearing  in  mind  that  the 
abiding  kingdom  was  not  of  this  world. 

A. 

To    L.  S . 


Port  Elizabeth,  9th  mo.  1st,  1833. 
My  Dear  Lydia  : — Thine  was  a  precious  evidence  that 
we  do  continue  as  epistles  livingly  written  in  one  an- 
other's heart.  In  all  our  earthly  journeyings  how  great- 
ly do  we  think  our  enjoyment  increased  by  the  presence 
of  those  we  love.  How  much  more,  then,  may  we  rejoice, 
if  enabled  to  walk  in  the  high  and  holy  way  in  company, 
mutually  to  witness,  the  breathings  of  this  language  ? 
Come  let  us  go  up  to  the  Mount  together,  that  we  may  be 
there  taught  the  King's  laws,  and  strengthened  in  the  ob- 
servance of  them.  Very  gladly  do  I  learn  that  dear  L.  M. 
is  also  desiring  a  better  inheritance ;  how  comforting  the 
remembrance  that  none  ever  sought  in  vain.  I  am  at  this 
time  reminded  of  some  formerly  who  followed  Jesus,  and 
he,  turning,  asked  whom  seek  ye  1     They  said,  Master, 


ANN    WILLSON.  141 

where  dvvellest  thou  ?  The  answer  was  "  come  and  see.'' 
They  not  onhj  went,  but  abode  wiih  him.  Would  that  we 
may  be  thus  disposed  ;  then  would  ability  be  furnished  to 
invite  others,  assuring  them  that  we  had  found  him  of 
whom  Moses  and  the  prophets  wrote. 

JNot  only  to  thyself,  my  beloved  friend)  is  a  state  of  dearth 
and  drought  known ;  look  upon  our  parched  soil,  is  it  not 
a  lively  emblem  of  the  mind  1  and  we  watch  the  gather- 
ing of  clouds  with  intense  interest,  but  in  all  things  we 
may  be  instructed.  Do  we  not  see  that  whatever  merely 
rests  upon  the  surface,  is  withering  and  fading,  while 
trees,  whose  roots  descend  deeply,  find  moisture  and  retain 
their  greenness  and  vigor  ?  Ah !  I  too  know  seasons 
like  thine,  and  am  sometimes  ready  to  conclude  the  win- 
dows of  heaven  will  no  more  be  opened,  and  the  blessing 
always  withheld.  Yet,  through  all  do  we  not  perceive  a 
secretly  consoling  belief,  that  the  compassionate  regard  of 
Parental  Goodness  is  over  all  His  works— that  He  not  only 
plants,  but  in  due  time  will  water  and  refresh  !  And  dost 
thou  not  with  me,  dear  one,  find  a  necessity  to  watch  thy 
field,  like  as  does  the  careful  husbandman,  lest  the  birds  of 
the  air  pick  up  and  feed  upon  the  seed,  instead  of  it  tak- 
ing root  and  bringing  forth  for  the  harvest  ? 

I  have  just  returned  from  a  short  but  satisfactory 
visit  to  some  of  our  relations;  the  first  time  my  feet 
have  strayed  beyond  the  home  vicinity  since  sister's 
illness,  and  it  has  refreshed  not  only  bodily,  hiii  spiritual 
energies  also.  Reached  Woodstown  last  Second  day ; 
on  Third,  attended  their  iMonthly  i\Ieeting,  in  which  a 
few  words  from  one  of  the  little  ones  of  the  flock  seemed 
to  me  of  deep,  solemn  and  instructive  import.  "  Thou 
hast  not  dwelt  long  enough  on  the  watch  tower;  hast 


14.2  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

not  sufficiently  kept  the  word  of  my  patience,  to  beconne 
a  dedicated  watchman  on  the  walls  of  Zion  ;  thou  hast 
not  resisted  unto  blood — known  death  to  all  the  willings 
and  runnings  of  the  creature."  Here,  my  dear  Lydia, 
our  nature  shrinks  and  desires  to  be  kept  from  this 
hour,  instead  of  uttering  the  language,  "not  my  will, 
but  thine  be  done."  We  were,  likewise,  at  Salem  and 
Alloways  Creek  monthly  assemblings,  accompanied  by 
uncle  I.  and  aunt  E.  It  is  surely  a  privilege  thus  to 
associate;  there  is  an  attractive  influence  in  minds 
wrought  upon  by  the  power  of  truth,  which  gathers  to 
it  what  is  of  like  tendency.     *     *     *  A. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Port  Elizabeth,  9t/i  mo.  l^tk,  1833. 

Thou  judged  rightly,  beloved  one,  in  believing  quiet- 
ness evidenced  no  abatement  of  affection  ;  nay,  verily — 
but  the  heart  has  had  its  sorrows,  and  the  body  its  frail- 
ties ;  yet  through  all  we  have  been  wonderfully  favored, 
and  are  in  gratitude  bound  to  acknowledge  that  we 
have  indeed  witnessed  support  and  restoration.  The 
tide  of  human  feeling  oft  rises  at  the  recollection,  and 
the  secret  breathings  of  the  spirit  are  for  an  acceptable 
thank-offering.  Greatly,  my  friend,  do  I  desire  not 
only  to  feel  that  in  Abraham  the  seed  is  called,  but  that 
our  future  movements  may  enable  us  sometimes  to  ex- 
perience a  sitting  down  with  Isaac  and  Jacob  in  the 
kingdom. 

Time  is  among  the  valuables,  and  conforms  not  to  the 
loiterer's  step.  This  is  a  delightful  autumnal  day,  and 
was  there  a  foot  and  a  mind  disposed  to  unite  with  mine 
own,  how  pleasantly  would  we  wander  forth,  and,  amid 


ANN    WILLSON.  l-l-S 

nature's  works,  read  her  ways.  By  these  animating 
hieroglyphics,  much  might  the  heart  be  taught.  They 
ministered  to  the  Ancients,  and  conlinuetheir  instructive 
language  to  successors.  Oh,  that  we  occupied  our 
places  as  much  to  the  glory  of  All-creative  Energy!  then 
should  we  be  arrayed  like  the  lily,  and  fed  as  the  ravens. 
I  can  rejoice  in  E.'s  safe  return  and  settlement  among 
you  again  ;  and  hope  it  may  prove  of  lasting  benefit  to 
her  slender  frame.  The  enjoyments  of  those  precious 
family  links,  are  to  be  numbered  with  our  dearest  privi- 
leges ;  and  far  better  is  a  little  with  Heaven's  blessing 
resting  thereon,  than  abundance  of  ill  gotten  gain.  I 
was  particularly  interested  in  the  perusal  of  O.  P.'s 
letter,  and  felt  its  correctness  and  force.  Will  the  day 
ever  arrive  when  the  hand  of  the  oppressor  shall  no 
more  be  raised,  but  love  and  mercy  every  where  prevail? 
thus  producing  a  state  similar  to  that  described  by  the 
poet :  "  which  who  can  see,  though  but  in  distant  pros- 
pect, and  not  feel  his  soul  refreshed  with  foretaste  of 
the  joy."  Gladly  would  I  have  found  myself  beside 
thee,  during  the  Foral  Exhibition,  and  indeed  many  a 
time  when  naught  attracts  our  outward  gaze;  there  is 
surely  a  congeniality  of  soul  that  makes  holy  fellowship, 
and  we  may  remember  the  master  directed  his  disciples 
not  to  p.ny  particular  performances,  but  to  love  one 
another  as  he  had  loved  them.     *     *      *  Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Port  Elizabeth^  \st  mo.,  ISS^. 
My  dearS. — The  Ancients,  we  find,  often  greeted  one 
another  by  epistle,  in  order  to  stir  up  the  pure  mind  by 
way  of  remembrance  ;  their  example  is  worthy  of  imita- 


144  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

tion,and  I  can  truly  say,  receptions  of  this  kind  are  always 
cordial  to  my  feelings,  though  so  remotely  situated  from 
the  active  scenes  of  life  I  have  naught  to  offer  in  return, 
save  what  occurs  in  my  own  small  world,  which  winter 
has  narrowed  still  more;  hut  if  more  circumscribed, 
deepened — and  when  the  hoarse  wind  moans  around  us, 
and  the  storm  patters  upon  our  dwelling,  we  gather  more 
closely  to  the  hearth-side,  and  feel  indeed  our  happiness 
to  be  in  each  others' keeping  (as  regards  terrestrials;) 
then  it  is  that  we  draw  largely  upon  memory  ;  tax  time 
gone,  talk  of  friends  far  away,  and  the  heart  is  all  love 
and  feelino-.  There  is  a  melancholy  pleasure  in  thus 
yielding  one's  self  up  to  tender  recollections,  though 
they  may  awaken  regrets,  and  we  may  desire  to  again 
bathe  in  the  buoyant  stream  that  has  glided  on  till  for- 
ever gone  from  us.  Ah,  this  tells  us  how  poor  are  the 
joys  of  earth,  because  exhaustible  !  Yes,  human  re- 
sources are  all  inconstant,  but  there  is  a  Fountain  from 
whence  living  waters  continually  flow.  May  we  be  able 
to  drink  thereof,  to  the  satisfying  and  refreshment  of 
our  souls. 

I  suppose  George  Fox's  gifts  to  have  been  love,  chris- 
tian love,  as  that  is  the  richest  of  all  treasures,  and  a 
fit  offering  for  so  excellent  a  man  ;  and  thou  judged 
rightly  in  believing  thy  fold  would  be  an  acceptable 
Christmas  memento.  Gold  or  silver,  I  covet  not,  but 
am  of  friendship  tenacious.  Let  me,  like  Agur,  be 
blessed  with  food  and  raiment,  what  need  I  more  for 
life's  journey,  and  the  gates  of  Heaven  require  not 
entrance-money.  Oh,  my  beloved  friend!  that  our  final 
lodgement  may  be  where  perfect  peace  is  the  spirit's  pro- 
vision. #  #  *  #  * 


ANN    VVILLSON.  145 

Accept  the  united  love  of  my  brother,  sister  and  self, 
portioning  out  to  thy  mother  and  sister  E,,  whose  cheer- 
ful countenance  I  oft  in  fancy  see,  and  it  has  at  limes 
been  a  stimulus  to  me,  to  act  in  like  manner.  I  re- 
member somewhere  to  have  read,  that  good  humor  was 
the  clear  blue  sky  of  the  soul. 

With  the  desire  of  hearing  from  thee  soon,  1  rest  as 
hitherto,  thy  friend,  Anna, 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Port  Elizabeth,  \st  mo.  19?/^,  1834, 
Thinkest  thou,  loved  one,  that  I  am  wanting  in  the 
essentials  of  genuine  friendship,  memory  and  affectionl 
Nay  verily,  my  thoughts  have  not  only  given  thee  a 
New  Year's  salutation,  but  I  think  I  may  say  safely,  a 
daily  offering  has  been  secretly  thine  for  weeks  past  j 
but  my  dwelling  has  been  much  in  introversion  of  mind. 
The  present  season  deprives  the  earth  of  verdure  and 
foliage,  and  we  seek  not  pleasures  beyond  the  blazing 
ingle-side  and  its  cheering  associations;  and  to  be  able 
thus,  when  all  without  seems  desolation,  to  abide  in 
our  tent,  and  enjoy  there  the  enlivening,  the  comforting 
emanations  of  heavenly  intercourse,  would  greatly 
repay  all  outward  strippings  ;  but  if  this  be  not  our 
precious  experience,  we  had  need  labor  diligently,  that 
our  habitations  be  more  congenial  to  the  increase  of 
light  and  warmth. 

I  do  not  so  well  recollect  the  very  day  of  our  acquaint- 
ance as  thyself,  but  this  I  know,  it  has  not  only  been  to 
my  enjoyment  but  real  advantage  ;  and  I  trust  we  are 
united  by  a  little  portion  of  that  alliance  which  binds 
seekino;  ones  together  in  durable  union.      ^-         *         "^ 


116  FAMILIAR    LETTER:?    OF 

The  educatron  of  children  is  of  the  utmost  importance. 
Created  in  the  heavenly  image,  oh  that  we  could  pre- 
serve them  from  putting  forth  a  hand  to  partake  of  for- 
bidden fruit.  When  the  "  Lamb's  book  of  life  "  is  a  little 
opened  to  our  own  minds,  we  cannot  rest  satisfied  with 
desires  for  enlargement  in  this  excellent  knowledge  our- 
selves, but  would  gather  to  its  teachings  not  only  those 
dear  to  us,  but  the  whole  human  family  j  and  yet  how 
very  little  can  we  do  for  self,  much  less  one  for  another, 
except  the  mutual  encouragement  to  perseverance,  and 
holding  on  our  way.  When  seriously  reflecting  on  the 
much  that  devolves  upon  those  who  have  the  charge  ot 
the  rising  generation,  I  am  almost  ready  to  withdraw  my 
hand  from  the  v/ork,  but  the  revival  of  the  language,  "  As 
thy  day  is  so  shall  thy  strength  be^"  encourages  to  the 
continuance.  A.  W. 

To  R.  H . 


Port  Elizabeth,  2d  mo.  ISth,  1834. 

My  Dear  Cousin  : — There  seems  to  have  been  a  mutual 
keeping  the  tent,  or  rather  an  abiding  in  silence,  but 
verily  I  know  'tis  not  an  evidence  of  forgetfulness ;  but 
the  cares  of  the  world  are  many,  and  the  desires  of  the 
heart  to  be  freed  from  all  bondage  are  also  abundant,  and 
this  warfare  is  not,  methinks,  a  good  preparation  for 
words ;  but  when  affectionate  feeling  and  endearment  is 
cherished,  the  affinity  of  the  body  is  remembered,  and  the 
more  durable  and  holy  alliance  of  the  soul  hoped  for. 

I  have  spent  the  winter  weather  mostly  at  home;  but 
now,  as  the  influence  of  Spring  is  secretly  and  gradually 
gaining  upon  us,  like  those  little  flutterers  who  would 
spread   their  wings  to  the  genial   sunbeams,  have  I  also 


ANN    WILLSON.  liT 

ventured  beyond  the  threshold  ;  and  week  before  last, 
added  myself  to  a  very  pleasant  company  of  female 
friends  from  Mount  Holly,  in  a  visit  to  the  extremities  of 
our  State.  Left  the  Port  on  Second  day,  and  returned  on 
Seventh  day,  with  a  degree  of  satisfaction,  and  as  the  penny 
of  reward  is  ever  for  the  least  laborer,  so,  methinks,  a  little 
waiting-maid  received  an  Israelitish  recompense.  Their 
call  was  principally  to  the  highways  and  hedges,  and  'tis 
among  the  many  proofs  of  His  love,  who  regards  the 
whole  human  family,  that  the  messengers  are  sent  forth, 
as  it  were,  to  the  very  ends  of  the  earth  ;  to  those  who 
seem  hidden  and  almost  overlooked  in  the  sight  of  man. 

Wilt  thou  not,  my  dear  cousin,  look  towards  paying  us 
a  long  visit  this  year?  Thou  hast  been  with  us  when 
sorrow  rested  upon  our  habitation,  let  us  have  thee  also 
when  sunshine  is  upon  the  shealing. 

Anna. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


Port  EHzaheth,  Sri  mo.  2m,  1834. 
My  Dear  S. — Oft  does  affection  turn  the  thoughts  to 
thee-ward.  In  those  excellent  and  most  valuable  records 
I  think  there  is  a  remark  similar  to  this,  "  How  can  a 
man,  if  he  love  not  his  brother  whom  he  has  seen,  love 
the  invisible  whom  he  hath  not  seen."  Thus  loving  and 
caring  for  the  brethren  is  in  accordance  with  holy  har- 
mony and  counsel.  And  who  are  the  brethren  ?  What 
saith  our  Leader  himself  on  the  occasion?  "  Whosoever 
doeth  the  will  of  my  father  who  is  in  heaven,  the  same  is 
my  mother,  sister,  and  brother  ;"  therefore,  as  each  is  con- 
cerned to  act  in  obedience  to  the  internal  teachings, 
these,  methinks,  will  be  bound  together  with  the  uniting 


148  '  rA:\riLiAR  letters  of 

unction,  and  finally  gathered  to  the  mansions  prepared. 
Oh  I  that  such  may  be  our  happy  experience.  Doubtless 
'tis  only  the  diligent  hand  that  maketh  rich  in  spirituals 
as  well  as  in  temporals.  Let  us  then  be  industriously 
doing  the  work  of  our  day,  for  truly  I  have  humblingly 
found  there  was  no  living  upon  the  labor  of  others;  but 
there  must  be  an  earning  my  oWn  livelihood.  Spring 
has  again  returned  to  us,  and  already  are  appearing  many 
little  vernal  evidences  of  Creative  Energy.  Dost  thou, 
my  friendj  rejoice  in  its  coming  ?  Is  thy  mind  turned  to 
its  enlivening  influence?     Well  then, 

"  Let  us  worship  together  the  mighty  Hand 
That  formed  our  bright  and  beautiful  landi" 

If  we  dwelt  in  the  nearness,  I  doubt  not  our  feet  would 
oft  be  inclined  to  companionship.  We  seem  almost  in  a 
-hidden  part  of  the  earth,  and  you  though  numbered  with 
the  multitude  Who  throng  the  gay  world,  heed  not  its 
allurements  more  than  the  playful  winds  which  pass  over 
your  peaceful  abode.  How  comfortable  the  consideration, 
that  place  and  situation  affect  not  the  spirit's  rest.  What- 
ever be  life's  allotment,  "  Jerusalem  remains  to  be  a  quiet 
habitation,"  to  which,  in  all  ages,  we  may  flee  and  find 
safety.  In  thy  short  but  sweet  little  communication  of 
last  month,  thou  sayest,  we  are  not  so  distant  but  that 
visits  may  be  exchanged  now  and  then,  &,c.  To  which 
Anna's  feelings  cordially  respond,  and  as  the  annual 
assembling  is  at  hand^  I  shall  most  likely  make  that  the 
time  of"  ?2ozfJ,"  and  trust  the  "  /Ae/i"  will  soon  follow,  by 
bringing  thee  to  us.  And  may  attachment  here  be  only 
the  stepping  stone  to  eternal  alliance.  I  believe  much 
more  enjoyment  would  be  the  portion  of  human  kind 
were  it  our  primary  engagement  to  promote  the  truth  and 


ANN    WILLSOM.  IID 

abide  with  it ;  then,  at  seasons  in  the  separate  or  collec- 
tive capacity,  would  not  the  very  windows  above  be,  as  it 
were,  opened,  and  blessings  poured  forth  in  which  there 
might  be  true  rejoicing. 

Our  house-plants  require  so  much  attention,  that  Flora's 
family  are  greatly  neglected.  I  suppose  your  garden  is 
even  now  putting  on  its  beautiful  raiment.  Would  that 
we  honored  the  Forming  Hand  as  much  as  does  the  inani- 
mate part  of  His  workmanship.  I  feel  as  if  I  could  hardly 
resign  the  pen.     Once  more,  dear  one,  farewell. 

Anna^ 

To  L.  S . 


Port  Elizabeth,  3(7  mo.  2^th,  1834. 

My  Dear  L. — Thine  are  always  truly  acceptable  visi- 
tants, though  for  a  time  they  have  been  "  few  and  far 
between  ;"  yet  no  shadow  of  doubting  arose.  Nay,  verily  ; 
Anna  has  full  faith  in  thy  affectionate  constancy,  and  very 
cordially  reciprocates  the  desire  of  bodily  communion. 
Many  a  solitary  season  has  been  experienced  by  me  tooj 
and  we  have  doubtless  both  felt  as  if  the  sun  was  quite 
withdrawn,  and  entire  darkness  was  upon  our  habitations. 
But  let  us  be  cheered  by  the  recollection  that  'tis  when 
night  is  on  the  earth,  and  all  fleshly  stirrings  cease,  that 
the  dew  descendeth  and  resteth  ;  then,  when  the  enliven- 
ing rays  again  return,  they  not  only  produce  strength,  but 
fertility  also,  I  want  us,  my  dear  friend,  to  know  our  in- 
ternal dwelling  to  be  in  the  nearness  ;  this  would  produce 
a  fellowship  more  precious  than  these  bodies  are  capable 
of,  and  we  should  be  taught  to  walk  by  the  same  rule  and 
mind  the  same  things. 

I  have  sometimes  of  late,  felt  almost  unfitted  for  partici- 
*13 


150  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

pation   in  temporals  ;   but  it  will   not  do  to  yield  to  such 
exemption  ;  we  may  remember  what  He  himself  said,  "  I 
come  not  to  destroy  but  to  fulfil."     Therefore,  instead  of 
shrinking  from  the  two-fold  e^^ercise,  may  we  endeavor  to 
honor  the  truth,  Undeir  the  law.     Without  blood  there  was 
no  remission  ;  so,  methinks,  we  shall  find  nature  must  offer 
itself  up.     It  was  when  entire  resignation  was   wrought, 
and  the  breathing  language  was^  "  not  my  will  but  thine 
be  done,"  that  the  strengthening;  angel  appeared.     I  was 
at  Salem  Quarter,  where  was  J.  M.  5  one  whose  ministry 
is  particulary  interesting  and  impressive.     He  came  Port- 
ward,  and  was  at  our  First  day  meeting  very  satisfactorily; 
but  what  can  any  one  do  for  us  except  there  be  a  laboring 
for  our  oWn  livelihood^a  knowing  the  gift  in  ourselves, 
and  who  it  is  thai  says,  «'  Give  me  to  diink  ]"  And  though 
we  may  be  ready  to  conclude  the  Well  is  deep,  and  there 
is  not  wherewith   to  draw,  yet  as  there   is  an  asking,  the 
promise  remains,  "  Whosoever  drinketh  of  the  water  that 
I   shall  give  him  shall  never  thirst ;  but  the  water  that  I 
shall  give  shall  be  in  him  a  well  of  water,  springing  up 
into  everlasting  life."     1  am  not  at  all  surprised  at  thy  de- 
sire to  return  to  the  little  flock.    In  spring-time  how  ani- 
mating is  the  scene — earth  freshening  before  us — from  the 
earliest  vernal  buddings  to  expansion  and  beauty;  and  simi- 
lar to  it  are  the  daj's  of  infancy  and  childhood.     We  are 
watching  the  progression  of  strength,  intellect,  capacity, 
&,c.;  our  hands  training  the   flexile  vine,  or  culturing  the 
less  helpless  plant,  and  these  labors,  however  light,  endear 
them  to  us.     Do  I  not  know  what  I  say  ?     Ah  I  come  and 
see  ;  my  precious  lambkins  are  not  what  I  could  wish  them 
to   be,  yet  they  are   a  choice  portion  of  the   household. 
Would  thnt  the  risingjojeneiation  of  the  two  families  might 


ANN    WILLSON.  151 

mingle  and  become  known  to  one  another  ;  and  like  their 
aunts,  make  of  the  sum  total  enduring  friendship.  My 
sister  thou  knowest  loves  thee  truly,  but  she  is  a  real 
business  character,  and  finds  few  leisure  moments  in  her 
pathway.  We  have  not  only  living  witness,  but  it  seems 
to^have  been  thus  from  time  immemorial,  for  even  Paul 
says,  '^  the  married  woman  careth  for  her  husband,  how 
she  may  best  please  him." 

A. 

To    M.,  AND  A.  S . 


Port  Elizabeth,  Uh  mo.  29th,  1834^ 
Dear,  Cousins  : — At  this  season,  how  the  heart  expands 
in  universal  love  !  Nature  eloquently  speaks,  and  the 
language  of  the  poet  forcibly  arises,  "  jf^cquaint  thj^self 
with  God  if  thou  wouldst  taste  his  works."  We  have  a 
lively  participation  in  all  around  us,  and  while  that  which 
is  allied  to  the  dust  rejoices  in  its  glorious  clothing,  the 
breath  that  was  infused  into  and  made  man  a  living  soul, 
should  also  renewedly  manifest  the  Maker's  image. 

Our  Yearly  Meeting  was,  to  me,  a  deeply  interesting 
season,  wherein  I  believe  there  was  a  harmonious  laborins: 
for  the  general  welfare,  the  effects  of  which  were  a  being 
fed  and  refreshed  together.  Dear  Phebe  I.  seems  only 
I'ngering  a  little  longer  for  the  Truth's  sake,  as  it  were  on 
the  threshold  of  the  better  world  ;  reviving  in  my  remem- 
brance what  was  said  of  some  formerly,  that  they  should 
not  taste  death  until  they  witnessed  "the  kingdom  to  come 
with  power."  Much  exercise  was  occasioned  by  the  various 
deficiencies  brought  up  in  the  reports,  particularly  the 
want  of  a  more  diligent  attendance  of  meetings.  On  this 
subject,  she  spoke  sweetly  ;  briefly  relatirg  her  experience, 


152  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

and  reminding  us  that  it  was  when  the  multitude  were 
visiting  the  divine  Master  that  the  bread  was  blessed  and 
broken. 

That  valiant  mother  in  Israel,  whose  spiritual  strength 
still  seems  abounding,  (Mary  Lukens,)  appeared,  supported 
by  her  daughters,  and  was  as  usual  the  avenue  of  excel- 
lent counsel.  The  testimony  against  Slavery  receives  in- 
creasing attention,  and  every  epistle  I  think  touched  the 
pathetic  chord;  but  as  our  journeyings  are  to  be  only  in 
the  unity,  T  see  great  propriety  in  waiting  with  (not  for) 
one  another.  M.  S.  L.  feelingly  addressed  the  assembly 
on  this  subject,  encouraging  each  one's  faithfulness  to 
manifested  dut}'-,  and  kindly  bearing  with  those  who  see 
not  this  matter:  repeating  what  the  Law-giver  himseli' 
said,  "  Ye  are  ray  friends,  if  ye  do  whatsoever  I  command 
you."  E.  N.'s  voice,  too,  was  sundry  times  heard,  signi- 
fying that  she  had  found  there  was  as  much  condemnation 
for  taking  away  from  the  words  of  the  book  as  for  adding 
thereto.  Once  addressed  the  young  people,  more  particu- 
larly those  who,  butterfly  like,  were  spending  their  time 
and  strength  in  the  air,  calling  their  attention  to  the  un- 
wise virgins,  who  in  the  day  of  want  vainly  asked,  saying 
"  give  us  of  your  oil,"  &c. 

Towards  the  close  was  a  precious  communication,  and 
the  meeting  ended  well.  *  *  *  * 

Farewell,  and  please  write  soon,  saith  cousin 

Anna. 

on  her  return  from  a  visit  to  canada. 

To  A.  A.  T . 

mw  York,  Itk  mo.  21  sf,  1834. 
We  have  again  alighted  in  the  Union,  and  after  perils  by 
land  and  perils  by  water,  feel  T  trust,  measurably  sensible 


ANN    WILLSON. 


153 


of  the  favor  of  a  safe  return  ;  and  my  thoughts  turn  as  they 
naturally  should,  towards  communion  with  the  loved  ones 
of  home,  which  in  all  wanderings  has  been  the  centre  of 
affectionate  gravitation.  It  was  delightful  to  find  a  mes- 
senger from  the  Port  in  waiting.  I  know  that  to  our 
dear  father's  considerate  care  I  owe  much,  and  having 
just  come  from  the  land  of  Indians,  may  I  not  be  permitted 
to  adopt  their  phraseology,  in  acknowledging  that  I  do 
and  often  have  rejoiced  that  the  Good  Spirit  has  put  it 
into  his  heart  to  be  thus  concerned  for  a  little  lowly  one  ? 
At  Buffalo,  that  flourishing  frontier  town,  we  saw  several 
of  this  injured  and  diminishing  race,  who  seemed  of  the 
better  order  among  them,  if  we  may  judge  by  their 
robing.  Some  were  dressed  in  fine  blue  broad  cloth,  bor- 
dered with  the  list,  and  pantalets  of  the  same,  set  off"  with 
rows  of  white  beads,  and  ornamented  moccasins,  &c. ;  but 
over  all,  notwithstanding  the  weather  was  very  warm, 
must  be  thrown  the  Indian  symbol,  a  thick  rose  blanket. 
They  were,  as  usual,  adorned  with  rings  and  trinkets. 
Wishing  to  know  to  what  tribe  they  belonged,  cousin  M. 
asked  one,  but  she  either  understood  not,  or  professed  not 
to,  and  appeared  in  no  disposition  to  talk.  B.  F.  went  to 
their  village,  and  has  many  interesting  things  to  say  con- 
cerning ihem.  It  was  also  our  purpose  to  have  looked 
upon  their  abiding  place,  but  some  occurrences  prevented. 
Travelled  for  miles  along  the  shores  of  Erie,  whose  tran- 
quil, serene  surface,  revived,  with  a  sense  of  its  beauty 
and  correctness,  the  poetical  expression '' o'er  the  Lake's 
placid  bosom,  for  hushed  was  the  wind,"  &c.  Crossed  the 
Niagara  at  Black  Rock,  and  were  whirled  off* two  miles 
on  a  rail  road.  When  returning,  our  number  was  added 
to  by  fifty-six  children  from  the  infant  school,  whom  the 


154 


FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


proprietor  took  in  merel}^  for  the  sake  of  treating  them 
with  a  ride.  Had  a  very  pleasant,  satisfactory  visit  in  the 
Province.  Found  our  relatives  there  in  possession  of,  and 
living  upon  the  good  of  the  land.  Cousin  J.'s  appears  to 
be  the  general  put-up  place,  and  we  rejoiced  to  welcome 
J.  F.  and  companion,  also,  pretty  soon  after,  G.  H.  and 
his,  to  this  stately  mansion.  The  several  comings  and 
goings  of  these  friends  gave  our  sojourn  there  a  very 
home-like  feeling,  and  greatly  heightened  enjoyment. — 
G.'s  services  in  that  part  are  not  ended ;  he  therefore 
remains  ]  the  others  have  turned  Eastward  again  ;  but  not- 
withstanding the  comfort  and  pleasure  afforded  us,  we 
conclude  there  is  a  marked  difference  between  the  other 
side  and  the  States,  Whether  it  exists  in  the  soil  or 
culture,  I  will  leave;  but  there  certainly  is  a  much  greater 
appearance  of  general  thriftiness  and  neatness  in  the 
United  Territories.  Most  likely  it  is  in  great  measure 
owing  to  the  government.  Monarchy  there,  methinks,  is 
fast  waning  to  its  finish  ;  many  a  Canadian  bosom  expands 
with  the  spirit  of  liberty,  and  is  e'en  now  ready  to  shake 
off  the  royal  yoke.  By  some  it  is  thought  the  crown  will 
never  again  be  placed  upon  an  English  head.  I  am  not 
politician  enough  to  dwell  upon  the  subject,  and  will 
therefore  speak  of  more  becoming  themes.  I  was 
delighted  in  our  own  borders  to  again  behold  the  corn 
fields,  and  gladly  greeted  our  old  Indian  friend  at  the 
breakfast  table,  served  up  in  the  form  of  a  ^^  johnny-cake'^ 
at  the  Manchester  hotel.  On  entering  this  commodious 
edifice,  on  one  side  of  the  largest  and  finest  apartments 
was  an  old  mossy  tree,  with  the  stumps  of  its  branches  set 
off  in  appropriate  character,  with  an  eagle  perched  upon 
the  summit :  while  beneath  him.  on  the  various  projpc- 


ANN    WILLSOX.  155 

tions,  were  ranged  squirrels  and  birds  of  different  kinds — 
the  dove,  with  a  leaf  in  its  mouth — a  pigeon  with  a  lily, 
&c. — while  a  wood  pecker  was  apparently  in  the  very 
act  of  tapping  at  the  bark  for  its  wonted  meal.  As  we 
near  the  lines,  our  country's  ensign  is  often  seen,  with 
spreading  wing,  above  the  doorway  of  the  Inns.  Our 
route  has  been  very  circuitous  ;  we  were  nearly  two  weeks 
getting  to  New  York,  taking  towns  and  meetings  in  our 
way.  Have  been  on  and  along  Ontario,  Erie,  Seneca, 
and  Cayuga  lakes — and  could  this  sheet,  which  was  manu- 
factured in  Bath,  connected  with  Goat  Island  by  a  short 
bridge,  directly  in  the  vicinity  of  the  famed  Cataract — 
could  this  fold  of  paper,  issuing  from  so  eminent  a  place, 
present  a  camera  obscura  view  of  its  own  neighborhood, 
and  parts  adjacent,  how  gladly  would  I  throw  before  you 
some  of  the  most  prominent  features  of  this  north  country; 
— but  I  fully  concur  with  B.  F.  in  believing  the  Falls  utterly 
indescribable,  and  I  could  not  enter  a  small  row  boat  to 
cross  over  to  the  American  side  without  fearfulness  and 
shrinking.  Thick  clouds  were  hanging  over  the  scene 
when  we  committed  ourselves  to  the  waters — the  heavens 
seemed  bowed  to  unite  with  the  earth — the  thundering 
torrent,  in  all  its  foamyness,  was  spread  out  above  and 
about  us,  and  a  temporal  eye  might  almost  fancy  it  the 
threshold  of  the  upper  world. 

Spent  a  day  at  Rochester,  very  pleasantly,  and  was  at 
their  meeting,  which  was  small,  and,  methought,  as  at 
Tery  many  other  places,  a  great  lack  of  diligent  attend- 
ance, and  I  could  not  but  secretly  mourn  under  a  belief 
that  the  spirit  of  the  world  in  us  was  uttering  the  same 
language  as  in  former  days  :  "  Crucify  him,  crucify  him, 
and  release  unto  us  Barabbas,"  who  remains  to  be  a  robber, 


156 


FAMILIAK,    LETTERS    OF 


instead  of  being  kept  bound,  usurping  the  place  of  the 
pure  truth  and  its  requisitions.  On  Seventh  day  afternoon, 
reached  Scipio ;  a  large  and  very  improved  circle  we 
found  dwelt  here,  possessing  a  choice  inheritance ;  fine 
farms  were  spread  about,  bearing  upon  them  rich  promises 
of  an  abundant  harvest;  but,  alas  I  here  too,  'mid  all  the 
multiplicit}''  of  blessings,  there  seemed  a  deficiency — a 
v.^ant  of  seeking  first  the  kingdom  and  its  righteousness — ■ 
that  so  other  things  might  be  rightly  added.  The  First 
day  gathering  was  not  large,  and  the  life  low,  insomuch 
that  the  query  of  one  formerly  seemed  applicable,  "Unto 
whom  were  ye  baptised  ?"  The  reply  was  unto  John. 
Unless  we  experience  the  living  efficacy  of  truth  in  our  own 
minds,  are  we  not  in  reality  ignorant  of  the  existence  of  a 
Holy  Spirit?  But  though  often  clothed  in  the  sackcloth  gar- 
ment for  mj'self  and  those  about  me,  yet  have  I  felt  best 
satisfied,  like  Mary,  to  keep  these  sayings  and  ponder 
them  in  my  own  heart.  T  went  forth  on  thisjourncy  with 
much  fear,  greatly  desiring  preservation,  and  now  I  am 
about  returning  to  you,  poor,  but  peaceful  ;  being,  I  think, 
above  all  things  solicitous  to  witness  that  most  excellent 
promise,  "Lo  I  am  with  you  always,  even  to  the  end  of  the 
world."  >ic  *-  *  ;i.  * 

For  the  present,  affectionately  farewell. 

To  S.  A.  W . 

8M  mo.  1834. 
My  sister  is  not  at  home,  and  in  her  absence  Anna  pre- 
sides as  matron  of  the  domicile,  and  with  a  restless  little 
company  round  me  this  Sabbath  afternoon,  and  therefore 
not  likely  to  have  my  attention  much  upon  the  paper  ;  yet 
so  strongly  is  the  mind  turned  toward  her  who,  though  dis- 


ANN    WILLSON.  157 

tant  in  person,  is  near  in  afTection,  that  I  am  resolved  to 
scribble  a  few  lines,  trusting  to  that  love  which  casteth  out 
fear,  for  all  due  allowance,  both   as  regards  manner  and 
matter.     Troublesome  comforts  the  tiny  tribe  are,  and  yet 
perhaps  I  never  feel  more  in  my  place  than  when  in  the 
midst  of  the  little  chatterers.       I  meant  to  have  visited 
thee  with  my  epistolary  card,  not  in  the  way  of  worldly 
etiquette,  but  because  this  kind  of  agency  is  the  only  me- 
thod of  intercourse,  immediately  on  thy   return  to  your 
lonely  dwelling;  thinking  the  signal  of  recall,  w^as  the  first 
of  the  month,  but  on  referring  to  thine,  find  I  was  mista- 
ken.    Sadly  disappointed,  dear  S.,  were  both  sister  and 
self;  thy  chamber  was  quite  ready  to  receive  its  weary 
and  way-worn  guest,  for  full   well  do  I  know   it    is  a 
fatiguing  journey  ;  naught  I  believe  was  wanting  to  com- 
plete its  comfort  so  far  as  our   simple  style  extends,  save  a 
pitcher  of  water,  and  thou  knowest  it  is  desirable  that  ele- 
ment, like  our  sure  merciesjshould  be  "new  every  morning." 
We  have,  during  the  warm  season,  been  favored  with  the 
company  of  divers  dear  ones,  yet  for  the  loss  of  thy  own 
presence  I  have  not  felt  compensated.     Precious  to  me  is 
every  link  of  true  affection,  which,  however  imperfectly 
it  flourishes  on  earth  will  we  hope  be  perfected  in  heaven, 
our  centering  place,  our  home,  I  humbly  trust,  when  dis- 
robed of  mortality  ;  our  sands,  my  beloved  friend,  are  fast 
ebbing.     I  oft  feel  it  so  ;  and  oh  I  that  we  may  so  walk  and 
so  act,  as  to  enable  us  to  look  toward  the  future  with  the 
confidence  and  belief  of  the  Apostle,  that  a  crown  of  eter- 
nal life  is  in  reserve.     Will   not  the  Master  now,  as   for- 
merly, if  our  vessels  are  prepared,  enter  in,  and  directing 
that  we  thrust  out   a  little   from   the    land  (from    earth 


158  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

and  its  engrossments,)  sit  down  and  teach?  And  we  may 
remember,  soon  after  this  the  miracle  was  wrought,  the 
multitude  of  fishes  were  taken.  It  is,  then,  as  aforetime, 
that  we  are  disposed  to  beckon  to  those  in  other  ships  that 
they  come  and  participate  in  the  work ;  though  some  of 
us  when  thus  witnessing  such  manifestations  of  loving 
kindness,  are  inclined  with  Peter,  to  fall  at  his  feet,  under 
a  sense  of  great  frailty  and  unworthiness  ;  but  how  consol- 
ing follows  the  language  "fear  not!"  I  want  that  we 
should  help,  that  we  should  aid  one  another;  and  seeking 
together  the  City  that  has  foundations,  I  crave  that  we 
may  become  sharers  of  its  immortal  glories.  A.  W. 

To  S.  A.  W . 


\Oth  mo.llh,  lS3-i. 
My  DEAR  Sally  Ann  : — I  meant  almost  immediately  to 
respond  to  thy  late  sweet  evidence  of  enduriug  affection, 
which  like  the  unchanging  Evergreens,  variations  of  season 
aflect  not  :  and  while  autumn  gradually  prevails  over  the 
verdant  and  beautiful  face  of  nature,  giving  by  its  renew- 
ed touches,  a  sombre  and  decaying  aspect,  the  reflective 
mind  is  consoled  by  the  knowledge  that  it  can  only  act 
upon  the  visible  creation  ;  and  the  enlightened  eye  hath 
telescopic  powers  enabling  it  to  discover  a  blessed,  unmov- 
ed retreat.  Thus  are  we  also  comforted,  even  while  abid- 
ing in  this  outer  court,  because  whistling  winds  and  deso- 
lating frosts  produce  the  happy  effect  of  drawing  and 
centering  us  together  by  the  one  fireside,  and  more  deeply 
blending  and  uniting  both  bodily  and  mental  sympathies. 
Come,  then,  my  friend,  and  if  excluded  from  rambles 
abroad,  let  us  pleasantly  and  cheeringly  participate  in  the 


ANN    WILLSON.  159 

hearth's  circlings.  Ah!  T,  too,  feel  myself  a  poor  mide- 
serving  one,  and  have  at  this  time  livingly  renewed  in  my 
remembrance,  a  state  spoken  of,  in  which  an  humbling 
sense  produced  this  language,  "I  am  not  worthy  that  thou 
shouldst  come  under  my  roof,  but  speak  the  word  and  it 
shall  be  done."  Here  was  trust  amid  all  discourao;ements 
and  verily,  my  friend,  I  believe  as  we  thus  confide 
we  shall  experience  healing.  To  me,  it  is  consoling  to 
recollect,  that  "  where  sin  abounded,  grace  did  much  more 
abound,"  and  yet  with  all  such  cheerings  of  faith,  my  own 
steppings  are  much  in  depressed  paths ;  and  truly,  in  the 
depths  of  prostration  and  lowliness,  can  my  spirit  accom- 
pany thee,  feeling  itself  sometimes  incapable  of  any  utter- 
ance save  the  petition  of  the  poor  publican,  "  Be  merciful 
to  me  a  sinner."  I  sigh  for  the  lifting  up  of  the  excel- 
lency of  spiritual  light ;  but  the  cloud  rests  long  on  the 
tabernacle.  Like^  as  formerly,  the  sea  is  all  night  going 
back,  and  praises  can  only  be  sung  on  the  banks  of  deliv- 
erance, and  whether  my  feet  are  ever  again  to  reach  those 
redeeming  heights,  remains  among  the  hidden  things. 
Let  us,  my  friend,  earnestly  covet  and  secretly  breathe  for 
each  other's  advancement.  The  children  of  Israel  travel- 
led together,  with  the  Lord  for  their  Leader,  though  His 
manifestations  were  oft  through  JMoses  ;  and  is  there  not 
too  much  inclination  to  build  unto  Moses  and  Elias,  who 
must  pass  away,  instead  of  the  alone  abiding  Source  of 
Truth,  which  would  lead  and  guide  into  all  Truth  ?  May 
I  hope  to  hear  from  thee  ver}^  soon.  A.  W. 

To  L.  S . 


Port  Elizabeth  10th  mo.  1th,  1834. 
"A   grain  of   wheat,  except    it   die,  abideth   alone." 
Thus  we  also,  my  dear  L.,  find  it  necessary  to  yield  up 


160 


FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


the  life  of  our  own  will,  that  so  the  vivifying  principle 
of  truth  nnay  exercise  its  vegetating  influence  ;  then,  I 
trust,  in  due  time  the  green  blade  will  appear,  and 
growth  after  growth  be  experienced,  till  the  likeness 
of  the  full  ear  is  attained.  But,  alas  I  this  state  seems 
only  in  perspective,  and  the  situation  of  my  mind  too 
much  resembles  that  of  the  Dove,  who  could  perceive  no 
foot-place ;  the  unstable  element  prevailing  over  the 
whole  earth  ;  no  branch  could  be  plucked  and  brought 
forth  in  evidence  of  the  water's  abatement  ;  the  only  re- 
sort was,  to  remain  within  the  ark,  and  truly,  He  who 
alone  knoweth  times  and  seasons,  can  cause  them  to 
eventuate  in  good  ;  and  after  deep  plungings,  as  in  the 
very  bottom  of  Jordan,  doubtless  will,  when  He  seeth 
meet,  permit  a  coming  up  with  stones  of  memorial. 
My  feet  have  strayed  far  and  wide  since  our  last  inter- 
view, beloved  one;  and  I  feel  as  if  I  had  not  gained 
much,  save  a  deeper  consciousness  of  my  own  little- 
ness. 'Tis  true  that  we  had  a  pleasant  journey,  with 
many  interesting  accompaniments  ;  added  to  which  was 
the  renewal  and  extension  of  the  ties  of  nature.  In 
the  northern  land,  were  many  related  ones,  whom  here- 
tofore I  had  not  seen  nor  known.  Sweet  are  the  reci- 
procations of  affection — dear  is  this  bond  of  union — 
delightful  the  varieties  of  the  world  to  an  untravelled 
eye,  and  greatly  increased  the  effect  when  echoed  by 
voices  we  love.  Yet  there  are  sweeter  and  more  thrill- 
ing tones,  notes  of  deeper  harmony  when  the  chords  of 
the  soul  are  sympathetically  touched,  the  heavenly  af- 
finity apparent — a  light  above  the  brightness  of  the  sun 
shedding  its  rays  upon,  warming  and  enlightening 
kindred  spirits.     This,  this,  is   the  union  that   I  covet, 


ANN    WILLSON.  '   IGl 

which  survives  the  "wreck  of  matter  and  the  crush  of 
worlds."  How  oft  of  late  have  I  wished  that  our  lots 
were  more  in  the  nearness,  that  we  might,  arm  in  arm, 
aid  each  other's  upward  ascent,  which,  if  continued, 
though  it  might  sometimes  seem  toilsome,  would  most 
assuredly  lead  to  the  mountain  of  the  Lord,  where  there 
is  nothing  to  harm  or  make  afraid.  Except  the  intelli- 
gence from  you,  in  consequence  of  sister's  little  visit, 
which  was  to  her  a  season  of  enjoyment,  I  have  not 
known  nor  heard  much  in  a  long  time.  Is  there,  my 
dear  friend,  no  kindly  greeting  for  us  in  thy  heart  % 
ah!  yes,  for  I  well  know  its  tenderness,  its  readiness  to 
pour  itself  forth  in  good  wishes  for  the  welfare  and 
happiness  of  the  distant,  as  well  as  the  present ;  but 
there  is  a  feeling  with  which  I  believe  we  are  both  ex- 
perimentally acquainted,  that  shrinks  from  expression, 
and  seems  to  have  received  counsel  to  "salute no  one  by 
the  way."     *  *         #         *         * 

Brother  I.  and  his  wife,  are,  as  usual,  among  the  busy 
bodies.  This  is  surely  right,  seeing  they  have  to  pro- 
vide for  a  little  brood,  and  yet  I  oft  secretly  desire  that 
earthly  zeal  may  be  more  and  more  tempered  with 
heavenly-mindedness.  It  is  not  safe  to  leave  the  lamp 
untrimmed  till  even-tide — for  we  find  the  wise  had  not 
oil  to  spare.  Let  us  not  forget  that  the  disciples 
dwelt  much  in  a  land  of  doubts  and  fears  ;  therefore 
may  we  not  give  back  in  seasons  of  proving,  seeing 
'tis  not  a  new  but  a  beaten  path  which  we  are  to  pursue. 

In  the  fulness  of  I  think  more  than  common  affection, 
I  conclude,  thine,  &c.  A.  W. 


U^^ 


162  Familiar  letters  of 


To  L.  S- 


Port  Elizabeth,  Utk  mo.  18M,  1834. 
Truly,  there  are  seasons  when  the  fig  tree  blossoms 
not,  neither   is   fruit  upon  the   vine;   yet,  oh!   that  we 
may  learn  through  and  in  all   dispensations  to  trust   in 
Him   whose  mercy   endureth,  and   who  will  and    does 
arise  for  the  help  of  the  needy  ;  yea,  hath  he  not  pro- 
mised   that   Zion^s  poor   shall  be   fed   and   comforted  1 
Ah,  my  dearly  beloved  L.,  I  wonder    whether  thou  and 
thy  little  friend  will  ever  reach  that  mountain — attain 
such  a  state  of  settlement  and  stability  as  to  be  able  to 
say  with  the  apostle,  "none  of  these  things  move  me." 
I  am  sometimes  nearly  ready  to  faint,  and  conclude  their 
is  no  advancement ;  but  if  a  poor  hungry  one  in  the 
day  of  great  want,  sits  down  discouraged,  thinkest  thou 
he    would    find  food   and  raiment  1     Nay,  verily;    for 
among  the  recorded  truths  I  believe  is,  he  that  will  not 
work  shall   not  eat.     And   though  we  may,  as  did  the 
disciples  formerly,  not  only   go    sorrowing   to  ihe   se- 
pulchre, but  enter  in  and  not  find  the  Sacred  Presence  ; 
yet  truly  have  I  been  consoled  in  the  revival  of  the  lan- 
guage, "Behold  He   is  not    here,  but   has    risen,  and 
goeth  before  you   into  Galilee;   the?'e  shall  ye  see  Him.'''' 
Mark,    my    dear    L.,    not    is  gone,    but    goeth — clearly 
showing  the  necessity  of  keeping  up  the  exercise,  con- 
tinuing the  journey  with  the  cheering  prospect  of  find- 
ing Him  whom  our  soul  seeketh.     I  have  mislaid  thy 
last,  but  if  I  recollect  aright,  thou  expressed  a  fear  that 
thou  shouldst  throw  gloom  in  my  path.     Dost  thou  not 
remember  that  'twas  when  some  were  walking  by  the 
way,  and  were  sad,  that  he  condescended  to  draw  near 


ANN    WILLSON.  1G3 

and  expound  unto  tlicm  the   scriptures,  teaching  things 
concerning  himself] 

I   think   the  tenor  of  thine  was  expressive  of  a  state 
which  I  can  well  understand,  wherein   the  heart  saith, 
"Let   God   be    true,  and   every  man  a  liar."     Not  that 
every  one  is   so;   but  nothing  is  to  be  depended  on,  or 
can  comfort  the  poor,  dejected  mind,  only  that  which 
Cometh  immediately   from   Him.     How   correspondent 
with    the   testimony    of   days    past!     "They    did   eat 
manna  in  the  desert,  and    are  dead,"  but   my  Father 
giveth  you  the  true  bread.     May  we,  then,  wait  for  it, 
and    in  times  of   deep  proving  let  us  not  give  back  or 
relax    in  faith;    when  there   was  a  desire  to  sit  on  the 
right  hand  and  the  left,  in  the  kingdom,  the  query  was, 
"Are  ye  able  to  drink  of  the  cup  that  I   shall  drink  of, 
and  be  baptized  with  the  baptism  that  I  am   baptized 
Avithl     Ah  I   all   had   to  be  yielded  up,  even  the  sense 
of  the  Father's   presence,  insomuch  that  the  agonizing 
cry  was,  "  Why  hast   thou   forsaken   me  V     But  when 
nature   was  wholly  resigned,  and  the  breathing  of  the 
spirit  was,  "not  my  will,  but  thine,"  the  strengthening 
angel  appeared. 

Write  to  me,  my  beloved  friend,  freely  and  fre- 
quently, for  surely  we  are  not  among  the  Babel-builders ; 
neither  is  our  language  confounded.  If,  during  seasons 
of  great  drought,  the  root  can  be  preserved  alive,  'tis 
cause  of  gratitude.  Do  we  not  perceive  Infinite  Wis- 
dom in  thus  keeping  us  lowly  and  humbled — for  were 
there  much  foliage  before  a  firm  fixedness  of  the  plant, 
when  the  sun  came  out,  would  it  not  wither  away  % 
Our  feelings  are,  I  believe,  oft  very  similar;  let  us  then 
sympathize  with  and  encourage  one  another,  hoping  the 


1G4  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

day  win  come  when  with  one  of  old  we  can  say,  "  Now 
lettest  thou  thy  servant  depart  in  peace,  for  mine  eyes 
have  seen  thy  salvation. "^^  A. 

To  L.  S . 


Port  Elizabeth,  2d  mo.  23J,  1835. 
My  dear  Lydia  has,  I  expect,  ere  this,  heard  how 
Port  folks  have  of  late  fared — sitting  much  under  the 
shadow  of  sorrow — w^atching  the  threatening  clouds, 
and  fearing  they  would  break  over  us  ;  but  how  cheering 
to  be  able  now  to  say,  the  sky  is  clearing,  and  joy  and 
gladness  are  again  beaming  forth.  Truly,  our  blessings 
have  been  many,  and  not  the  least  is  the  present  pros- 
pect of  restoration.  Our  beloved  father  has  been 
alarmingly  ill,  and  still  was  so  when  thy  interesting 
fold  arrived  ;  it  was  at  a  suitable  time  read,  and  seemed 
comfortable  and  precious  to  him.  His  is  a  mind  much 
concerned  for  the  little  ones,  and  those  whose  faces  are 
turned  Zionward;  who  stand,  as  by  the  way,  with  this 
touching  appeal,  "  who  shall  show  us  any  good  1"  Ah! 
my  friend,  let  us  give  thanks  and  take  courage ;  for 
surely  there  is  abundant  cause,  seeing  the  hearts  of 
some  are  moved  with  tenderness  toward  the  children — 
and  as  a  parental  finger  is  extended  for  assistance  at 
the  first  totterings  of  infantile  feet,  so  help  has  been  and 
is  affectionately  administered  for  our  support  and 
strength.  May  the  secret  breathings  of  gratitude 
ascend  with  acceptance.  Heavenward  5  remembering 
the  language  of  the  Master,  "  there  is  none  good  but 
one,"  to  Him  be  ascribed  all  thanksgiving  and  praise. 


ANN    WILLSON. 


1G5 


To  S.   A.   W . 

Port  Elizabeth,  3d  mo.  dih,  1835. 
Mvr  DEAR  S.  A. — Though  the  pause  of  the  pen  hath 
been  long,  j^et  thought  has  not  been  the  companion  of  its 
idleness.  Anna  has  oft  felt  nearly  united  to  thee,  I  trust, 
in  the  bond  of  everlasting  love.  There  is  a  sure  and 
abiding  covenant,  and  as  we  endeavor  to  dwell  in  it,  we 
shall  be  kept  alive  ;  branches  of  the  same  vine  are  made 
partakers  together  of  its  invigorating  influence.  How  doth 
my  heart,  at  this  time,  covet  for  us  an  increase  of  strength; 
and  let  us  remember  for  our  encouragement,  the  sympa- 
thetic language  of  the  Master,  who,  touched  with  a  sense 
of  human  frailty,  thus  compassionates  it,  ''  the  spirit  truly 
is  willing,  but  the  flesh  is  weak."  Oh  I  that  with  resigned 
and  lioly  confidence  we  might  be  abilitated  to  say  with  one 
formerly  : — 

"The  Lord  my  pasture  shall  prepare, 
And  feed  me  with  a  Shepherd's  care  ; 
My  noon-day  walks  he  shall  attend, 
And  all  the  midnight  hours  defend." 

Spring — that  reviving  and  renewing  season  of  verdure 
and  joyousness,  has  again  returned  5  and  soon  its  beautiful 
green  garment  will  be  spread  upon  our  land  ;  already  have 
the  early  warblers  risen  to  greet  it.  Yesterday  was  a  sunny 
and  pleasant  Sabbath.  Near  my  window,  morning  offerings 
were  sweetly  poured  forth  to  Him,  without  whose  notice 
the  sparrow  liveth  not.  Would  that  our  minds  were 
equally  harmonious,  and  that,  as  they  were  created,  so  all 
things  might  continue  good.  But  alas,  I  am  sometimes 
ready  to  say  with  the  erring  disciple  of  old,  "  depart  from 
me,  Oh  Lord  I  because  I  am  sinful ;"  and  truly,  my  friend, 
what  union  can  light  have  with  darkness?  One  or  the  other 


166  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

must  prevail  ;  would  that  we  may  strive  to  walk  in  the 
former,  that  so  it  may  increase, 'till  like  the  candle  lighted 
in  Jerusalem,  it  shall  illuminate  the  whole  house.  Art 
thou  still  laboring  for  the  public  weal  ?  Well,  I  know  of 
no  more  effectual  way  than  that  of  Instructress.  It  is  said, 
"  train  up  a  child  in  the  way  he  should  go,"  &c.;  yet  we 
do  not  find  that  all  thus  cared  for,  are  kept  in  the  right 
path.  How  sorrowful,  when  we  see  perversity  and  re- 
bellion gaining  ground  in  little  hearts  I  I  suppose  in  this, 
as  well  as  in  days  gone,  there  is  need  of  diligence  and 
"watchfulness.  The  present  season  affords  many  a  profitable 
lesson  on  the  important  subject  ;  for  though  we  enrich  the 
earth  and  plant  therein  good  seed,  yet  how  necessary  often 
to  look  after  and  remove  those  upspringing  weeds  which 
obstruct  the  true  growth.  Our  vicinity  presents  a  field  of 
service  for  really  concerned  ones,  and  thy  little  friend 
would  be  disposed  to  lend  her  aid.  Thinkest  thou,  my 
dear  S.,  that  if  we  were  strictly  attentive  to  the  pointings 
of  duty  that  all  places  would  be  supplied,  and  we  should 
be  found  individually  and  faithfully  performing  our  allot- 
ments. :it  :K  *  «  *  * 

To  HER  Cousins  S . 


Port  Elizabeth,  4th  vio.  11th,  183n. 
Dear  Ones  : — You  have  doubtless  heard  ere  this,  that 
your  cousins'  little  tenement  has  again  been  made  sensible 
of  its  frailty  ;  but  as  the  clouds  have  passed  away,  I'll  not 
call  back  their  semblance ;  and  yet  it  was  not  to  me  a 
shadowy  season,  for  1  never  remember  to  have  passed  a 
more  serene  and  tranquil  week;  all  the  tossings  of  the 
mind  were  lulled;  every  little  billow  seemed  hushed  to 
rest,  and  I  was  permitted  to  experience  the  stream  of 


ANN    VVILLSON. 


167 


peace  to  flow  almost  iininterrnptedly.  Now  this  I 
acknowledge  not  in  valuation  of  the  creature,  unto  whom 
belongeth  abasedness  and  gratitude  ;  but  as  among  the 
unmerited  favors  of  Him  who  deals  tenderly,  and  toward 
whom  our  eye  should  be  turned  as  that  of  a  child  to  a 
parent.  How  excellent  and  how  comfortable  is  the 
expostulation  left  upon  record,  (and  when  brought  home 
to  our  own  individual  feelings,  truly  precious,) '*  If  ye, 
then,  being  evil,  know  how  to  give  good  gifts  unto  your 
children,  how  much  more  shall  your  Father  which  is  in 
Heaven  give  orood  thing-s  to  them  that  ask  him  ?"     There- 

DO  O 

fore  am  I,  with  the  Psalmist,  constrained  to  speak  well  of 
Zion,  and  say  they  that  love  Jerusalem  shall  prosper. 
First  and  Second  day,  I  was  numbered  with  the  annual 
assemblage.  It  was  an  interesting  commencement.  S.  D. 
was  among  the  eminent  visitors.  I  would  gladly  have 
seen  and  known  more  of  her,  for  with  her  there  seemed  to 
be  a  deep  indwelling,  and  an  attractiveness  of  heart;  I 
also  rejoiced  to  meet  with  P.  I.  M.  and  A.  H. ;  the  for- 
mer appears  to  abide  continually  in  the  element  of  love, 
and  when  with  her,  one  is,  as  il  were,  drawn  up  into  the 
same  pure  and  renovating  atmosphere.  T  find  she  is  much 
interested  in  your  Monthly  INIeeting  establishment,  and 
thinks  our  dear  A.  is  hardly  fulfilling  her  duty  in  with- 
holding herself  from  the  work,  much  desiring  she  would 
neither  plead  inability  or  incapacity — like  one  formerly 
excusing  himself  thus  :  ''  f  was  no  prophet,  neither  was  I 
a  prophet's  son  ;  but  I  was  an  herdman  and  a  gatherer  of 
sycamore  fruit." 

It  is  indeed  an  important  subject,  to  which  I  feel  much 
bound,  not  only  in  heart  but  hand  ;  and  would  that  I  were 
rightly  qualified  ;  for  assuredly  it  behoves   us  not  to  rest 


168  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

content  v/ith  correct  views,  but  in  accordance  tii  ere  with, 
what  is  found  to  be  done  that  do  with  our  might.  Of  our 
Education  Committee,  a  few  were  set  apart  to  propose 
something  to  act  upon.  May  we,  beloveds,  all  more  and 
more  resign  ourselves  to  the  little  requirements  devolving 
on  us;  so  shall  we  together  witness  a  harmonious  pro- 
gression. I  was  also  M'ith  D.  F.  a  litile  while  ;  there 
is  about  her  not  only  the  emblems,  but  evidences,  of 
loveliness.  *  *  *  *  * 

Your  cousin,  Anna. 

To  L.  S • 

Port  Elizabeth,  1th  mo.  29fh,  1835. 
My  Dear  L. — Had  I  followed  the  little  impulses  of 
feeling  and  affection,  the  pen  would  have  been  a  courier 
ere  this ;  but  I  may  acknowledge  to  thee  that  many  of 
the  old  inhabitants  remain,  instead  of  being  utterly  slain, 
and  by  putting  off  till  the  morrow  we  oft  waste  the 
strength  of  to-day  ;  but,  beloved  one,  it  is  not  with  Anna 
a  season  of  abounding ;  n^y,  fasting  rather  than  feasting 
has  been  my  late  allotment ;  and  though  perhaps  the  most 
suitable  aliment,  yet  I  have  not  been  prepared  in  sincerity 
to  say  "  feed  me  with  food  convenient."  What  was  the 
language  of  the  psalmist — "  thy  rod  and  thy  staff  they 
comfort  me?"  Oh!  that  we  may  patiently  abide  under 
the  former,  and  quietly  hope  for  the  coming  of  the  latter ; 
for  behold  the  sparrow  findeth  a  place,  and  the  swallow  a 
nest,  where  the  offspring  may  appear,  even  thine  altars, 
oh  Lord  of  hosts  I  Blessed  are  they  that  dwell  in  thy 
house;  let,  then,  the  sacrifice  continue  to  be  bound  with 
cords,  even  unto  the  horns  of  the  altar,  sensible  that  God 
alone  can  show  light.     We  find  now,  as  formerly,  there 


ANN    WILLSaN.  1C9 

are  drooping,  discouraging  moments— the  ship  in  the  midst 
of  the  sea  tossed  with  waves — but  how  consoling  the  tes- 
timony, about  the  fourth  watch  the  Master  is  seen  walking 
upon  the  troubled  billows,  with  the  sustaining,  the  animat- 
ing expression  of — Be  of  good  cheer—"  be  not  afraid,  ii 
is  /." 

Yes,  dear  E.  P.  is  with  us,  and  gladly  would  we  make 
thee  sharer  in  the  benefits  of  intercourse  and  converse  ; 
for  though  not  professedly  out  on  Truth's  service,  she  sure- 
!}'■  honors  and  exalts  its  cause.  My  heart  cleaveth  unto 
her,  and  my  spirit  desireth  yet  more  and  more  to  become 
"the  companion  of  all  those  who  fear  the  King,  and  keep 
his  precepts."  Can  I  not  persuade  thee  that  a  little  time 
might  be  profitably  spent  at  the  Port,  even  though  we 
should  not  be  able  to  hold  out  the  additional  inducement 
of  our  beloved  E.'s  presence  much  longer?  I  do  think 
our  two-fold  nature  requires  the  two-fold  strength,  the 
visible  and  invisible  union  ;  thus  may  we  more  effectually 
build  one  another  up  and  encourage  to  every  good  word 
and  work.  Dear  E.  M.,  or  J.  J.,  or  both,  would  be 
delightful  travelling  mates,  and  we  should  rejoice  to  wel- 
come them  to  this  secluded  nook  ;  toward  the  latter  I  have 
felt  strong  attractions  since  the  Annual  Session.  What  a 
high  and  holy  bond  is  union  of  spirit  I  If  a  tree  exhibit 
very  little  foliage,  yet  by  that  little  we  can  discern  its  simi- 
larity to  such  as  are  full  and  flourishing ;  and  may  I 
indulge  the  belief  that  with  us  both,  my  precious  friend, 
sufficient  greenness  is  felt,  to  prove  that  we  love  and  are 
alive  in  the  enduring  truth  ?  Letters  came  yesterday  from 
the  travellers  beyond  the  Atlantic,  containing  very  inter- 
esting accounts  of  the  Eastern  world;  thy  ears,  had  they 
15 


170  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

been  in  the  nearness,  would  have  been  I  doubt  not,  atten- 
tive listeners  ;  and  yet,  what  are  all  high  sounding  things, 
what  dignities  and  titles,  in  comparison  of  the  alone  envi- 
able one  of  a  meek  and  humble  follower  of  a  self-denying, 
a  crucified  Saviour,  whose  yoke,  (oh  comfortable  faith,)  if 
yielded  unto,  "  is  easy  and  burden  light  ?"  There  is  one 
thing  that  I  think  I  have  felt  incumbent  upon  me — viz  : 
to  bring  a  good  report  of  the  land,  and  verily  I  believe  if 
we  were  enabled  to  attain  entrance  therein,  we  should  find 
it  "flowing  with  milk  and  honey."  Anna. 

TO    THE    HOME    CIRCLE. 

Aear  Richmond,  Ind.,  lOih  mo.  2d,  1835. 
Thouo-h  the  far  West  may  be  eminent  for  fertility  of 
soil  and  agricultural  advantages,  yet  have  I  seen  no  tent 
or  pitching  spot  for  us  •  on  the  contrary  my  spirit  has 
feelingly  accorded  with  the  sentence,  "  home,  there's  no 
place  like  home;"  and  yet  we  enjoy  ourselves  very  much, 
having  mingled  with  interesting  ones  of  all  ages.  I  will 
proceed  to  give  some  account  of  the  friendly  gathering. 
There  are  many  substantial  worthy  members,  and  some  dear 
old  primitive  ones  who  shrink  from  the  least  innovation, 
apparently  desiring  to  end  their  days  without  the  smallest 
improvement  in  the  foot-paths  of  society.  We  did  not 
reach  G.  H.'s,  which  is  next  door  to  the  meeting-house, 
till  after  dark.  They  were  already  full,  but  would  take 
no  denial,  so  in  we  went,  and  found  H.  P.  W.  and  J.  F.  ; 
this  was  truly  pleasant,  but  we  were  not  easy  to  remain,  as 
so  many  had  previously  taken  up  their  abode  there  ;  and 
being  kindly  and  cordially  invited  to  remove  where  we 
now  are,  after  meeting  on  First  day,  we  came  to  our 
present   commodious  and  comfortable  lodgings  at  J.  P.'s. 


ANN    WILLSON.  171 

They  are  a  lovely  family,  consisting  of  father,  mother, 
and  daughter  S. 

The  week  has  been,  I  think,  a  season  of  favor,  though 
your  little  sister  was  in  the  early  part  among  those  who 
followed  fasting;  but  instructively  remembered  time  gone, 
when  the  lad  was  not  permitted  to  eat  in  secret  and  alone, 
but  after  there  was  a  descending,  a  sitting  down  upon  the 
grass,  the  small  supply  of  provisions  was  called  for, 
blessed,  and  refreshingly  distributed.  They  get  through 
with  an  abundance  of  business  in  one  sitting.  The  peo- 
ple, thought  I,  are  accustomed  to  "  clearing,"  ''  log-rol- 
ling," &c. 

On  Fourth  day  afternoon  J.  F.  visited  the  women's 
meeting,  and  sweetly  ministered  counsel,  particularly  to 
parents,  and  those  who  guided  the  footsteps  of  the  rising 
generation.  From  the  latter  class  even  /  did  not  feel 
exempted,  and  yet  how  could  I  have  wished  to  convey  to 
far-off  parental  ears,  the  full  force  of  the  living  language 
of  inspiration  ;  trusting  that  the  word  would  not  return 
void,  but  perform  its  office  of  stimulation,  edification  and 
comfort. 

Though  it  be  a  digression,  let  me  tell  you  we  are  not 
unmindful  of  the  little  gatherings  at  our  ain  humble  kirk, 
and  perhaps,  never  experienced  a  greater  love  for,  and 
nearness  to  all ;  and  as  we  desire  worldly  attainments 
even  for  children,  so  should  we  not  also  seek  spiritual 
knowledge  ?  Remember,  my  dear  sister  Bella,  that  we  are 
directed  to  suffer  little  children  to  come  unto  the  Master, 
for  of  such  innocent,  guileless  hearts  was  the  kingdom. 
Therefore,  because  it  will  be  a  gratification  to  me,  (if 
thou  dost  not  just  now  feel  it  for  thyself,)  wilt  thou  take 
R.  and  S.  with  thee  to  Fifth  day  meetings  ? 


1/2  FAMILIAR    LETTERS  OF 

Two  sittings  yesterday,  completed  the  yearly  sessions. 
At  the  close  of  which  the  younger  branches  were  invited 
to  the  Meeting  house  in  the  evening  by  J.  F.  A  large  and 
interesting  company  were  gathered,  to  whom  exhortation 
flowed  freely  and  powerfully ;  and  a  sweet  little  family 
assemblage  ere  our  separation  from  home-going  friends, 
this  morning,  ended  to  us  this  feast  of  tabernacles.    *    * 

A.NNA. 
TO    FRIENDS    AT    HOME. 

Salem,  10th  mo.  19M,  1835. 
Beloveds  : — A  little  longer  must  the  pen  be  the  agent 
of  intercourse,  though  we  begin  to  set  bounds  to  our 
wanderings,  and  think  we  shall  set  out  on  our  return  next 
week.  Thus  far,  time  has  travelled  swiftly  and  pleasantly, 
and  we  have  scarcely  felt  that  even  the  partition  of  senti- 
ment was  between  us  ;  kindness  and  affection  seem  to 
have  prevailed  over  sectarian  barriers,  and  I  rejoice  in  the 
sweet  feeling  of  durable  love  and  fellowship,  believing  we 
are  spiritually  of  one  and  the  same  religion,  though  when 
ineeting  day  comes,  it  is  a  little  living  to  walk  different 
paths;  but  it  has  been  much  easier  than  was  anticipated. 
The}'-  appear  to  be  great  dealers  in  land  here,  and  while  I 
feared  so  much  traffic  and  desire  after  accumulation  would 
be  prejudicial  to  Quakerism,  in  this  section,  as  well  as 
"porking"  in  Indiana;  I  have  myself  been  instructed, 
perceiving  some  energy  and  bartering  enterprise  must  be 
maintained,  even  to  become  possessors  of  the  hidden 
treasure.  A  miser  neither  benefits  the  world,  nor  is 
able  to  enjoy  the  good  things  intended  for  himself;  so  that 
your  poor  little  sister  after  some  seasons  of  secret  suffering, 
has  been  obliged  to  expose  her  own  simple  wares  for  the 
sake  of  a  livelihood. 


ANN    WILLSON.  173 

Is  there  a  dwelling  in  the  wilderness  with  the  experi- 
ence of  a  forty  days'  fast,  and  subject  to  temptation? 
Well,  how  comforting  to  remember  that  He  shall  give  His 
angels  charge  concerning  that  which  should  be  preserved, 
and  in  their  hands  it  shall  be  borne  up  and  kept  from  con- 
tact with  hardness.  And  we  may  also  recollect  that  after 
this,  there  was  a  going  forth  with  the  extension  of  the 
language,  "  repent,  for  the  kingdom  of  Heaven  is  at  hand." 
Now,  my  beloved  friends  whatever  be  our  allotment,  let 
us  not  shrink  from  it,  even  should  the  requisition  be, 
"  follow  me,  and  I  will  make  you  fishers  of  men." 

Reflecting  on  the  reluctance  to  be  away  from  our  own 
little  temple  meeting  days,  and  wondering  as  we  are  all 
children  of  one  family,  whence  proceeded  this  aversion,  I 
concluded  it  must  be  a  shoot  of  pride,  an  unwillingness  to 
be  a  spectacle  and  of  no  account,  for  the  Truth's  sake — 
like  as  aforetime,  the  cross  remains  to  be  a  stumbling  block 
and  foolishness.  And  I  never  before  so  clearly  saw  the 
difference  between  servitude  and  friendshsp — doing  just 
what  cannot  be  avoided  for  a  living's  sake,  or  endeavoring 
to  be  increasingly  useful,  and  to  testify  of  the  pleasantness 
of  the  path  and  the  lightness  of  the  burden  ;  methinks  this 
is  the  state  in  which  the  Master  saith,  "I  no  longer  call 
you  servants  but  friends ;  for  the  servant  knoweth  not 
what  his  Lord  doeth,  but  all  things  that  I  have  heard  of 
my  Father  I  have  made  known  unto  you."     "^         * 

ToS.  A.  W . 

1835. 

My  dear  S.  a.  : — Believing  we  are  bound  together,  not 
only  by  the  friendship,  which  has  long  subsisted,  but  more 
strongly  by  a  measure  of  that  durable  affection  which  has 


iT4  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

its  origin  in  the  "sempiternal  source  of  truth  divine^"  and 
should  unite  in  the  bond  of  brotherhood  the  pious  every 
where,  independent  of  all  traditional    knowledge — in  a 
portion  of  this  precious  fellowship,  I  trust  we  can  salute 
and  bid  each  other  good  speed.     Is  there  not,  somewhere 
in  the  excellent  repository  of  instruction,  correction   and 
consolation,  a  testimony  similar  to  this — If  any  man  will 
follow   me,  he  shall  know   of  my  doctrines'?     May  we, 
then,  become  more  and  more  willing  to  walk  in  the  way 
of  requirement,  leaving  the  variations  of  our  pathway,  and 
believing  that,  like  the  circuitous  windings  and  wander- 
ings of  many  little  streams,  all  will  at   length  terminate 
in  the  ocean?     Hast  thou  had  any  secret  sense  of  my  late 
quietude,   which  has  been  longer   maintained  than   was 
comfortable,  and   proceeded  not  from  any  abatement  of 
attachment?     Nay,  verily  ;   but  because  of  being  brought 
into  the  situation  of  one  formerly,  whose  experience  as  re- 
gards the  spiritual  life  was  that  of  "a  spring  shut  up,  a 
fountain  sealed."     Surely,  a  great  attainment  was  that  ot 
the  Apostle,  who  could  li  vingly  say,  he  knew  how  to  be  abas- 
ed and  how  to  abound.    There  are  few  of  us,  methinks,  who 
can  becomingly  bear  a  state  of  deep  poverty,  and  yet  how 
necessary  that  we  remember  we  are  but   tenants ;  and   if 
He  in  whose  hands  are  all  the   treasures  of  wisdom  and 
knowledge,  sees  meet  to  remove  us,  for  a  season,  from  a 
comfortable  and  convenient   habitation,  to  a  little   cottage 
with  hardly   a  subsistence,  it   is  doubtless  for  our  future 
benefit  ;  and  ohi  that  in  and  with  all  things  we  may  learn 
to  be  content,  and  thus  be  enabled   to   reap   the  happy 
effects  of  that  patience,  which  should  be  permitted  to  do 
its  perfect  work.      So  would  these  light  afflictions^  which 


ANN    WILLSON.  175 

are  but  momentary,  produce  a  "  far  more  exceeding  and 
eternal  weight  of  glory." 

Much  as  I  enjoyed  the  late  journeyings,  yet  it  was  truly 
satisfactory  to  nestle  again  in  the  bosom  of  my  retired 
home — within  the  precious  encirclings  of  family  affection; 
which  is  to  the  heart  as  cheering  and  enlivening  as  the 
fragrance  and  flavor  of  fruit  and  flowers  are  to  the  taste 
and  sight. 

Though  not  rested  when  our  quarterly  meeting  at  Salem 
came  on,  I  attended^  It  was  extremely  warm,  and]  we 
returned  home  at  night,  for  the  sake  of  favoring  the 
horses  5  were  at  Bridgt-ton  about  nine  in  the  evening,  and 
while  at  the  hotel,  a  drowned  man  Was  brought  in  from 
the  creek,  whither  he  had  gone  to  bathe.  He  could  not 
swim,  and  it  was  supposed,  got  into  a  hole.  The  litter 
was  surrounded  by  a  company  of  men,  so  that  we  saw  not 
the  countenance  of  the  poor  lifeless  one,  but  it  was  a  sor- 
rowful scene,  and  a  renewed  evidence  of  the  uncertainty 
of  existence.  The  efforts  for  resuscitation  were  in  vain, 
and  the  only  consolation  was,  the  hope  of  its  being  a  bliss- 
ful exchange  from  the  varyings  of  this  life  to  a  far  better 
inheritance  in  the  heavenly  realms.        ^i^         *         * 

To  S.  A.  W . 

1835. 
My  precious  Friend  : — Thy  little  messenger,  though 
it  found  me  prostrate,  came  in  a  needful  time,  and  cor- 
dial-like, had  a  cheering,  salutary  effect;  and  though 
we  may  dwell  in  low  places,  be  embosomed,  as  it  were, 
in  the  earth,  yet  I  trust  it  will  only  be  for  a  season,  ere 
the  genial  influences  of  the  rays  of  the  sun  of  righteous- 
ness, like  the  beamings  of  the  solar  orb  upon  the  soil. 


176  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

which  contains  embryo  vegetation,  will  cause  an  arising 
from  the  dust,  unsullied  thereby,  experiencing  a  growth 
upward,  and  increasing  in  strength  and  verdure  with 
the  ascent,  until  there  appear  not  only  bloom  and  fra- 
grance, but  some  fruit  bearing  branches,  also,  to  the 
honor  of  the  Creative  Hand,  who,  if  he  so  clothe  the 
grass  of  the  field,  how  much  more  will  he  not  care  for 
you,  "  oh  ye  of  little  faith  '("  'Mid  the  many  provings, 
turnings,  and  seemingly  utter  desertions,  I  have  re- 
membered that  the  language  of  the  Master  was,  "  what 
I  do  thou  knowest  not  now,  but  thou  shalt  know  here- 
after." I  feel  that  I  have  no  ability  to  answer  or  render 
an  equivalent  for  thy  valuable  tokens,  but  my  heart 
acknowledges  their  worth,  and  breathes  a  plaintive 
response ;  and,  oh  !  may  He  who  rejecteth  not  the  offer- 
ings of  broken  and  contrited  spirits,  deal  mercifully  with 
the  little  ones,  sending  "  help  from  his  sanctuary,  and 
strength  out  of  Zion."  A. 

To  S.  A.  W . 

I'lih  mo.,  1835. 

Does  not  Friendship  breathe  a  healing  essence  and  a 
strengthening  charm  next  to  the  hope  of  Heaven  1 

I  have  wished,  but  suppose  I  had  no  reason  to  expect, 
an  epistolary  offering  from  thee,  my  dear  S.,  only  because 
that  I  believe  such  as  have  enough  and  to  spare,  are 
oft  moved  to  visit  the  poor  and  the  needy,  ministering  to 
their  necessities.  And  what  said  the  bountiful  Giver 
of  all  good  1 — "  Inasmuch  as  ye  have  done  it  unto  one 
of  the  least  of  these,  my  brethren,  ye  have  done  it  unto 
me."  Silent  as  I  may  have  seemed,  beloved  one, 
thought  and  affection  have  not  been  lacking  in  tribute- 


ANN    WILLSOiX.  177 

money  ;  but  it  is  rtsally  winter  in  my  domtiin,  with  an 
o'ercast  sky-,  the  shade  of  which  I  would  not  willingly 
extend  over  a  more  sunny  habitation,  yet  feel  as  if  I 
could  not  let  the  present  Twelfth  month  close,  and  183G 
introduce  itself,  without  a  New  Year's  salutation. 

Formerly  a  flood  went  over  the  whole  earth,  and  only 
that  which  was  shut  Up  by  an  Almighty  hand  was  pre- 
served. Surely  the  transgressing  nature  still  witnesses 
a  deluge.  Oh!  that  the  ark  in  due  time  may  rest  upon 
the  Mount ;  the  Dove  hath  oft  gone  forth  but  found  no 
place  for  her  foot;  would  that  there  may  be  a  keeping 
close  within  the  floating  fabric,  till  the  peace-branch  an- 
nounces the  abatement  of  the  waters  1  What  was 
written  aforetime  was  for  our  instruction,  comfort,  &Cv, 
and  do  we  not,  in  seasons  of  heaviness,  turn  toward  the 
experience  of  others,  and  find  the  tribulated  path  is  not 
a  new  one  1  and  I  have  been  consoled  in  remembering 
when  death  prevailed  over  life,  and  Lazarus  was  en- 
tombed, the  Master  was  shown  the  very  place  where  he 
lay,  ere  the  cheering,  the  restoring  voice  of  "  Come 
forth,"  was  heard.  Then  there  was  not  only  an  arising, 
but  also  a  sitting  at  supper  with  him.     *     *     * 

To  .1.  J——. 


Port  ElizahetJh  1835. 
Both  thy  acceptable  little  messengers  reached  me, 
and  on  the  reception  of  the  last,  the  afl^ectionate  and 
sympathetic  feelings  would  have  disposed  me  for  an 
immediate  replj"- ;  but  company,  together  with  almost 
imperative  cngagenients,  prevented  the  exercise  of  the 
pen  ;  and  now  what  can  I  say,  for  I  am  as  one  that 
knoweth  nothingr — that  seemeth  to   have  little  sense  of 


178  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

aught  more  than  tenderness  and  love  ;  yet  'tis  consoling 
to  hope  that  even  this  state  is  owned  among  the  evi- 
dences of  discipleship.  "  Oh  !  Thou  who  settest  all  the 
borders  of  the  earth,"  appointest  day  and  night,  summer 
and  winter,  cause  the  spring  time  to  return — the  season 
in  which  there  is  melody  and  foliage  ;  then  might  ability 
be  furnished  to  go  into  the  field,  "  to  get  up  early  to  the 
vineyards  to  see  if  the  vine  flourish,  and  whether  grapes 
appear." 

I  too  rejoice  that  thou  wert  gathered  to  the  family 
band  ere  this  conflict  of  nature,  for  fading  as  the  flowers 
of  earth  are,  we  cling  to  them,  permitting  their  tendrils 
to  be  enclasped  around  our  hearts.  Yes,  my  precious 
sister,  I  can  form  some  idea  of  the  struggle  which  such 
a  severance  must  occasion,  and  the  difficulty  of  attain- 
ing to  such  resignation  as  would  breathe  "Thy  will  be 
done."  He  who  giveth  the  blossom,  scattereth  its  love- 
liness by  the  wind  ;  but  'tis  all  his  own,  and  limited  as 
human  vision  is,  we  are  unable  to  discern  for  what  wise 
purpose  the  little  lamb  is  called  home,  ere  it  knew  to 
"  wander  beyond  the  fold  of  innocency."  Doubtless 
the  parental  bosom  witnesses  a  pang,  but  will  it  not  be 
attracted  heavenward,  seeking  not  only  union  with  its 
offspring  but  with  the  angelic  throng  in  the  abiding 
country  %  Thus,  while  my  spirit  sorrows  with  you,  I 
remember  what  the  IMaster  himself  said,  "If  ye  loved 
me,  ye  would  rejoice  because  I  go  unto  the  Father." 

To  day  was  our  Monthly  Meeting-,  but  not  a  season  of 
the  resurrection  of  life.  How  oft  I  have  had  to  recur  to 
some  remarks  of  thine,  relative  to  this  outward  owning, 
and  though  they  have  measurably  had  a  supporting 
tendency,  yet  really  it  seems  as  if  the   waters  would 


ANN    WILLSON.  179 

overwhelm.  I  sometimes  fear  my  house  is  not  founded 
on  the  rock  :  storms  and  tempests  are  indeed  proving. 
Dear  aunt  H.,  and  cousin  A.,  were  inclined  to  visit  tiiis 
afternoon,  and  sent  for  thy  little  friend  to  join  them; 
but  the  clouds  were  too  thick  about  my  habitation  to 
suppose  I  could  enjoy  it,  if  able  to  prevent  the  shade 
from  extending  to  them  ;  and  yet,  beloved  one,  I  am 
thoughtlessly  casting  the  robe  of  sadness  o'er  thee.  Ah  ! 
but  thou  will  excuse,  for  I  know  a  sister's  heart  is  the 
recipient  of  all  our  changeful  moods.  Thou  sayest 
naught  of  Fishing  Creek  and  its  concerns,  and  to  myself, 
the  prospect  has  disappeared ;  and  yet  not  in  that  undis- 
turbed, serene  and  comfortable  way  that  is  desirable. 
When  people,  or  rather  individuals,  are  found  to  be 
honestly  poor,  are  not  debts  frankly  forgiven,  and  even 
a  little  advanced,  for  their  encouragement,  that  so  they 
may  still  exist  ?  *  ^  *  *  * 

To  S.  A.  W . 

Port  Elizabeth, 
My  dear  S.  a. — Had  I  followed  the  impulse  of  in- 
clination and  feeling,  I  should  have  written  very  soon 
after  my  return  to  this  home  of  melody  and  beauty  ;  for 
such  He  whose  mandate  of  old  spake  creation  into  ex- 
istence, and  has,  after  a  long  and  dreary  winter,  renewed 
the  vivifying  call,  causes  the  mansions  of  his  formation 
to  be  ;  the  grassiness,  the  flow^eriness,  the  animation 
and  the  harmonious  warblings  'mid  the  leafy  bowers, 
speak  the  same  language  now  as  then — that  all  are  good. 
I  wonder  not,  that  viewing  in  contrast  the  w^orks  of  na- 
ture and  of  art,  the  poetic  heart  of  Cowper  felt  and  ex- 
claimed, "  God  made  the  country,"  &c.  ;  and  we  who 
dwell  among  its  outspread  and  instructive  pages,  should 


180  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

learn  to  look  through  the  effect  to  the  cause.  How 
I  should  at  this  season  of  the  year  love  to  walk  abroad 
with  thee,  that  so,  in  beholding  the  works  of  the  great 
Architect,  our  spirits  nnight  unite  in  celebration  and  in 
praise;  the  Fountain  of  Love  is  unfailing,  and  as  we 
abide  near  it,  we  shall  surely  witness  its  waters  to  rise, 
not  only  to  the  ankle  but  to  become  a  broad  stream,  in 
which  there  will  be  ability  given  to  bathe  refreshingly. 
I  am  sometimes  ready  to  conclude,  I  shall  always  be  a 
dwarf,  never  arrive  at  the  stature  of  womanhood  ;  but 
'tis  comfortable  to  remember  that  children  were  in  the 
camp  of  the  Israelites,  that  they  were  permitted  also  to 
be  companions  of  their  journeyings. 

Think  of,  and  write  frequently  to  one  who  gladly  sub- 
scribes herself  thy  attached  friend,  A.  W. 

To  J.  J . 

Vort  Elizabeth,  12th  mo.  \2th,  1835. 
Dear  J. — Thine,  my  beloved  friend,  found  me  in  a 
desert  place,  and  was  truly  as  a  little  refreshment. 
Formerly,  when  there  was  a  desire  to  partake  of  the 
joys  of  the  kingdom,  the  q\iery  to  the  disciples  was, 
''  are  ye  able  to  drink  of  the  cup  that  I  drink  of,  and 
be  baptised  with  the  baptism  wherewith  I  am  baplisedl" 
Ah,  my  dear  friend,  do  we  not  still  experience  the  ne- 
cessity of  this — and  yet  shrink  from  it  1  Thy  fold 
was  to  my  tried  mind  a  precious  evidence  both  of  afiec- 
tion  and  reciprocal  feeling,  and  would  have  been  an- 
swered almost  immediately  had  I  not  been  so  utterly  di- 
vested of  the  vivifying  influence  of  the  true  light;  so 
entirely  in  a  wintry  state,  wherein  we  know  not  a  green 
leaf — nay,  not  even  a  blade  of  verdure  can  appear  ;  thu?, 


ANW    WILLSON.  181 

jointly  with  thyself,  have  I  understood  and  witnessed 
the  declaration  of  the  Master,  that  "  without  me  ye  can 
do  nothing  ;"  yet  consolingly  also  arises  the  language, 
that  from  "  the  mouths  of  babes  and  nurslings  is  at 
times  ordained  praise."  Surely  no  one  can  see  God  and 
live  ;  the  flesh,  its  own  willingsand  wishings,  must  pass 
away  ;  the  new  heavens  and  the  new  earth,  wherein 
dwelleth  righteousness,  be  called  into  existence;  then 
will  that  which  is  thus  made  good,  be  abilitated  to  sing 
and  rejoice. 

Some  time  since,  I  secretly  felt  my  spirit  uniting 
itself  to  thee,  not  only  in  the  fellowship  of  love,  but  of 
exercise  and  suflering,  insomuch  that  I  seemed  to  hear 
the  utterance  of  thy  heart  on  this  wise — I  go  a  fishing  ; 
and  the  reply  was,  /  also  go  with  thee;  but  wishing  to  try 
the  fleece,  and  fearing  my  own  imagination,  I  forbore 
speaking ;  and  though  a  cloud  is  now  upon  my  taberna- 
cle, so  that,  like  the  Israelites,  I  feel  no  liberty  to  jour- 
ney without  renewed  requirement,  yet  it  would  perhaps 
be  best  for  me  to  acknowledge  that  I  am  not  sure  of 
releasement.  Can  this  season  of  darkness  be  a  proving 
dispensation  %  Would  that  He  whose  fan  is  in  his  hand 
might  be  permitted  thoroughly  to  purify  the  floor,  that 
so  wheat  may  one  day  be  prepared  for  the  garner. 

Even  should  the  subject  revive  in  the  life,  I  fear  for 
myself,  lest  I  might  not  be  a  help-mate,  but  rather  a 
burden  to  thee,  for,  ah!  thou  knowest  not  fully  my  many 
deficiencies  ;  the  "old  inhjlbitants"  are  far  from  being  all 
cast  out.  Truly,  the  regard  of  Him  who  comes  to  heal 
and  to  strengthen  is  very  great ;  touched  with  a  sense 
of  human  infirmities,  he  comfortingly  compassionates 

16 


182  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

them,  with,  though  '*  the  spirit   is  willing,  the  flesh    is 
weak." 

Thou  wilt  perceive,  my  denr,  that  in  conformity  with 
thy  request,  I  freely  express  myself,  and  believe  it 
would  lighten  thy  labor  greatly  to  have  the  company  of 
some  one  more  advanced  in  experience,  and  more 
closely  attentive  to  heavenly  teachings  than  thy  poor, 
and,  according  to  present  feelings,  worthless  little  friend. 

"How  desirable  to  seek — to  find, 
That  plant  of  changeless  die, 
Whose  root  is  in  the  lowly  mind 
Whose  blossom,  in  the  sky.'* 

An  epistle  from  thee,  even  though  thou  mayest  see 
the  propriety  of  joining  thyself  to  another,  would  be 
truly  acceptable  ;  let  us  be  actuated  by  the  counsel  "to 
do  good  and  communicate;"  and  should  some  more 
suitable  companion  ofler,  I  should,  I  trust,  be  excused, 
and  enabled  to  rejoice  in  the  progression  of  the  work. 
The  afternoon  spent  at  your  dwelling  was  indeed  delight- 
ful to  me,  though  there  seemed  toward  the  close  of  the 
evening  something  hovering  about  us  which  was  per- 
haps too  little  heeded.  Knowing  the  situation  of  my 
mind  with  regard  to  thee  for  some  time,  I  attributed  it 
to  that,  and  my  earnest  desires  for  thy  encouragement, 
that  instead  of  saying  there  are  four  months  and  then 
cometh  harvest,  thou  shouldst  lift  up  thy  eyes  and  be- 
hold the  fields  already  white;  and  although  tl^y  bark 
may,  to  thyself,  seem  frail,  yet  I  verily  believe  as  there 
is  a  concern  to  keep  it  in  readiness,  the  Master  will,  as 
aforetime,  enter  in,  and  directing  to  thrust  out  a  little 
from  the  land  (leave  the  quiet  moorings  of  home,)  teach 


ANN    WILLSON.  183 

the  people  out  of  the  ship.  But  as  I  was  about  to  ob- 
serve, with  me  it  did  not  end  thus  ;  and  I  verily  think 
thou  ought  to  have  had  lot  and  part  in  the  matter;  sleep 
departed,  and  I  was  not  sensible  of  even  slumbering 
slightly  through  the  night;  neither  did  I  find  rest  to 
my  spirit  until  the  power  of  truth  prevailed.  Thou 
doubtless  recollects  the  young  man  who  was  with  us, 
and  who  passes  several  months  of  each  year  at  New 
Haven  College.  Entirely  from  meeting  and  from  friends, 
to  myself  it  appeared  that  the  best  life  was  in  dan- 
ger ;  I  shrunk  from  the  task,  yet  feared  to  with- 
hold, lest  at  some  future  period  I  might  feel  accountable, 
if  I  did  not  endeavor  to  strengthen  the  things  which 
were  weak  ;  but,  oh  !  blessed  recompense  !  do  we  not 
sometimes  experience  that  though  He  cometh  quickly. 
His  reward  is  with  Him  1 

Please  present  an  unmeasured  portion  of  love  to  dear 
S.  J.  L.,  and  advise  her  to  remember  that  the  disciples 
were  forbid  to  put  their  light  under  a  bushel,  but  direct- 
ed to  set  it  on  a  candlestick,  that  so  all  who  were  in 
the  house  might  see.  There  is,  methinks,  deep  instruc- 
tion contained  therein  ;  if  we  are  favored  to  be  in  the 
house,  we  may  all  be  benefitted  and  encouraged  by  the 
taper  of  a  little  sister — for  are  we  not,  or  ought  we  not, 
to  be  as  the  planetary  system,  reflecting  and  receiving 
light  of  one  another  1 

To  J.  J . 

Dear  J. — Thou  will  perhaps  smile  at  the  idea  of  such 
a  tiny  scrap  of  paper  ;  it  reminds  me  of  John  Woolman's 
economical  practices.  Would  that  his  example  might, 
by  mc,  be  observed   in    more    important  things  ;  but  I 


184-  Familiar  letters  or 

have  taken  the  pen  without  a  prospect  of  using  it  much. 
Thou  wilt  understand  that  feeling-  wherein  words  are 
few,  though  love  is  strong.  Oh  !  for  ability  rightly  to 
abide  every  dispensationj  but  truly,  'tis  not  easy  to  rest 
satisfied  with  simple  existence,  without  evidence  that 
we  have  an  inheritance  in  the  land  of  promise.  Thy 
little  acknowledgment  of  affectionate  feeling  for  sister 
A.  A.  T.,  was  very  grateful. 

As  there  is  liberty,  and  thou  art  disposed,  my  pre- 
cious friend,  to  communicate  thy  thoughts,  feelings  and 
prospects,  it  will  be  very  gratifying,  and  make  some 
amends  for  separation  and  distance.  I  feel  that  I  have 
much  need  of  aid,  of  counsel,  yea,  of  strength.  Would 
that  weakness  might  give  place  to  that  grace  which  is 
able  to  build  up  and  establish.  It  is  a  season  of  bloom, 
of  beauty  and  of  melody  ;  yet  the  heart  cannot  rejoice, 
nor  join  in  the  general  anthem  of  nature  without  the 
vivifying  influence  of  spiritual  sunshine.  I  will  hope 
for  its  enlivening  rays,  remembering  that  we  know  not 
what  is  best  for  us. 

To  S.  J.  L— . 
Port  Elizabeth,  1st  mo.  3c?,  1836. 
My  precious  Sarah's  communication  was  very  cor- 
dially received  ;  it  was  when  the  people  yielded  them- 
selves and  their  professions,  encouraging  one  another 
therein,  that  the  work  prospered  ;  and  though  we  may 
feel  ourselves  as  the  least,  and  of  no  ability,  yet  truly  I 
perceive  this  excuseth  us  not.  What  said  the  Master 
to  his  disciples  formerlyl  "  When  I  sent  you  forth  with- 
out scrip  or  purse,  lacked  ye  anything  V  Ah,  my  dear 
friend  !   do  we  not  both  experimentally  find  that  there 


ANN    WILLSON.  185 

must  be  faithfulness  in  the  little,  else  there  will  be  no 
ruling  over  nriore.  When  the  Israelites  witnessed  a 
season  of  famine  in  their  journeyings,  and  were  entirely 
dependent  on  Heaven  for  snstenarjce,  we  nnay  remember 
it  fell  in  very  small  particles,  during  the  stillness  of 
night ;  and  when  the  morning  camC)  was  gathered 
for  support ;  but  had  they  remained  inactive  in  their 
dwellings,  n  )t  obeying  the  directions  to  go  pick  up  for 
themselves  and  their  families,  must  they  not  have  pe- 
rished in  the  wilderness  1 

My  spirit  has,  for  some  time  been  nearly  united  in 
travail  and  in  sympathy  with  our  beloved  J.  ;  yet,  when 
looking  at  myself  and  my  manifold  infirmities,  I  shrunk 
through  unworthiness,  from  being  even  armor-bearer  ; 
but  now,  having  fully  concluded  on  joining  her,  a  com- 
fortable serenity  rests  upon  my  habitation,  with  the 
breathing  desire  of  one  of  old,  ''  if  Thou  go  not  with  us, 
send  us  not  up  hence."  There  is,  I  am  persuaded,  an 
affinity  more  durable  than  that  of  these  perishing  tene- 
ments— a  pure,  an  unchanging  alliance — yea,  a  sister- 
ship  in  the  truth.  May  it  be  our  happy  inheri- 
tance. 

Uncle  T.  D.  is  now  in  our  borders,  inspecting  the  state 
of  the  Church  and  of  individuals  ;  he  began  his  mission  of 
family  visits  yesterday.  Is  it  not  an  evidence  of  Divine 
regard  that  the  foot  of  the  laborer  is  still  turned  to- 
ward us  ]  And  as  thought  or  the  pen  notes  the  new 
year  of  1836,  do  we  not  secretly  covet  for  ourselves  and 
one  another  an  increase  of  strength  with  the  increase  of 
days  ;  that  so  the  stature  of  spiritual  manhood  be  attain- 
ed, and  the  lime  eventually  come  when  there  may  be 
a  permanent  abiding  in  the  house  to  go  no  more  out. 


186  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


To  L.  S- 


Port  Elizabeth,  3d  of  \st  mo.  1836. 
My  dear  Lydia  is  brought  into  such  affectionate 
remembrance,  that  though  I  have  come  to  my  chamber 
for  the  purpose  of  repose,  and  it  is  now  drawing  nf  ar  the 
eleventh  hour,  yet  I  feel  disposed  at  least  to  offer  a  New 
Year's  salutation,  and  query  after  thy  welfare;  hoping 
1836  is  productive  of  both  health  and  happiness.  If  we 
could  but  note  the  march  of  time  by  improvement,  how 
little  we  should  heed  its  fleetness.  How  is  it  with  thee, 
my  friend  1  Hath  thy  pound  gained  a  pound  ?  for  I  trust 
the  Master's  money  has  not  been  kept  wrapped  up  nor 
enshrouded  in  earth  ;  for  surely  thou,  with  me,  dost  feel 
that  we  are  as  accountable  for  the  little  as  if  we  had  been 
entrusted  with  much.  Then,  may  it  be  our  endeavor  so 
profitably  to  use  that  which  is  given,  that  at  His  com- 
ing, He  may  receive  his  own  with  usury  .Thou  knowest 
that,  in  commerce,  there  is  great  need  of  energy,  activity 
and  industry,  that  our  possessions  may  be  added  to,  and 
when  we  perceive  we  are  thriving,  then  may  we  be  found 
extending  a  hand  of  help.  Art  thou  faithful,  my  dear 
Lydia  ?  Dost  thou  deal  thy  bread  to  the  hungry,  and 
water  to  the  thirsty  soul  ?  yea,  and  let  him  that  hath  two 
coats,  impart  to  him  who  hath  none;  truly,  methinks 
these  sayings  as  much  apply  to  the  mind,  as  to  its  perisha- 
ble tenement.  I  do  not  mean  to  reprove,  but  only  to 
encourage  thee,  my  dear  L.,  in  the  performance  of  little 
duties ;  even  if  they  extend  no  further  than  the  episto- 
lary line,  (which,  however,  I  am  inclined  to  believe  they 
do,)  but  really  I  have  looked,  waited  and  hoped  for  a 
little  expression  from  thy  pen  for  weeks  past.     If  thou 


ANN    WILLSON.  187 

art  poorer  at  the  present  period,  than  thy  friend  A.,  thou 
must  be  spiritually  pennyless  indeed.  And  now,  shall  I 
tell  thee  of  my  own  prospects,  which  have  been  weighty, 
and  thou  wilt  not  marvel  when  I  say,  I  seem  not  to  have 
a  spare  crumb.  But  what  said  the  Master,  "  when  I  sent 
you  forth  without  scrip  or  purse,  lacked  ye  anything  f 
Truly,  I  wonder  not  at  John's  humiliated  feelings,  when 
he  declared  "  there  cometh  one  after  me,  the  latchet  of 
whose  shoes  I  am  not  worthy  to  stoop  down  and  unloose." 
Alas !  what  can  poor  human  creatures  do  but  baptize  unto 
repentance,  and  if  I  am  thus  bowed  under  a  sense  of 
inability,  what  must  our  dear  friend  J,  be,  upon  whose 
mind  the  work  rests?  It  is  to  endeavor  to  strengthen  and 
bear  up  her  hands  that  I  purpose  leaving  home  next  week, 
to  attend  the  Particular  and  Monthly  Meetings  belonging 
to  Salem  Quarter,  and  perhaps  extending  our  travel  with- 
in the  limits  of  Burlington  and  Haddonfield  Quarters. 
A  true  help  meet  and  companion  should  at  least  secretly 
share  the  burden ;  'tis  apostolic  counsel  that  we  lighten 
one  another's  labors.  May  there  be  an  increase  of  depth^ 
a  preparation  to  help  bear  the  ark.  This  is  a  most  severe 
snow  storm.  Our  kirk  had  not  one  female  representative 
to-day:  only  about  half  a  dozen  horsemen  assembled 
Uncle  Isaac  says  he  loves  thee  ;  yea,  and  I  verily  believe, 
he  considers  thee  among  his  daughters  in  the  Truth.  He 
is,  if  nothing  prevents,  to  be  counsellor  and  care  taker  of 
J.  and  myself.  ''■'-  '•'  *  '-^  * 

To  J.  J . 


7th  of  1st  mo.,  1836. 
Thine,  my  dear  friend,  reached   me  duly,  and  its  con 
tents  were  satisfactory  and  comforting ;  and  I  may  tell 


188  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

thee  that  though  I  seemed  to  wish  a  clearer  evidence  of 
movement,  yet  have  I  had  to  remember  what  was  said 
aforetime ;  that  a  perverse  generation  sought  a  sign,  but 
none  should  be  given  save  that  of  Jonas.  1  did  not  find 
settlement  till  1  fully  concluded  to  join  thee,  since  which 
the  mountains  have  fled  and  the  little  hills  skipped  ;  and 
I  have  measurably  understood  the  language,  "  my  yoke  is 
easy  and  burden  light."  And  as  thou  also  acknowledges 
the  supporting  arm  of  Divine  Power  to  be  near,"  I  trust 
we  have  botii  been  favored  with  a  small  portion  of  some- 
thing like  the  consolations  of  the  kingdom,  perhaps  in 
order  that  faith  may  be  increased,  and  can  we  not  adopt 
the  expression  of  one  formerly,  "  Lord  we  believe,  help 
thou  our  unbelief?"  Let  us  then,  casting  our  care  upon 
the  All  sufficient  Helper,  follow  the  counsel  of  the  Psalm- 
ist, "  give  thanks  because  He  is  good  and  his  mercy 
endureth  forever."^ 

Cooperton,  1  mo.  22,  1836. 
Beloveds  at  home  :— If  we  speak  it  will  be  concerning 
ourselves,  for  the  external  eye  and  ear  have  not  been  in- 
tentl}'  open,  though  we  have  not  been  insensible  to  the 
scene  around  us.  The  beautiful  white  carpeting,  with  its 
snowy  curls  and  curves,  together  with  the  sleety  crystals, 
when  "  every  shrub  and  every  twig  seemed  wrought 
in  glass ;" — these  things  did  not  escape  observation. 
When  fairly  from  home,  my  mind  became  quiet  and 
calm.  I  told  J.,  I  hoped  we  should  commit  our  case  to 
the  feeder  of  the  ravens  and  the  sparrows,  and  while 
we  feared,  also  trust.  Experience  teaches  that  winds, 
though  they  agitate,  clear  the  atmosphere.  We  are  but 
as  children,  sent  on  small  errands;  but  feel  that  it  is  as 


ANN    WILLSON.  189 

necessary  to  be  faithful  in  the  little  as  if  we  were  rulers 
over  much.  O.  doubtless  informed  you  that  we  met.  I 
could  not  but  regret  that  his  visit  was  to  be  during  our 
absence ;  however  these  things  must  be  resigned,  and  the 
thoughts  centre  upon  our  present  business,  and  should  it 
not  be  to  much  advantage,  I  greatly  desire  we  may  be 
preserved  from  doing  any  harm,  or  in  any  way  discredit- 
ing the  cause.  Attended  Mulica  Hill  Meeting  on  Fourth 
day,  where  our  friend  J.  addressed  the  gathering,  with 
"  Whence  shall  we  buy  bread,  that  these  may  eat?"  signi- 
fying, that  such  was  the  query  of  the  Master  to  his  disci- 
ples ;  but  they  were  poor  and  had  nothing,  and  that  this 
situation  doubtless  was  occasioned  through  unwatchfulness ; 
but  the  small  provision  of  the  little  lad  was  called  for  and 
blessed  ;  enlarging  upon  the  subject.  Our  attachment  and 
unity  increases,  and  I  hope  this  journey,  though  very  hum- 
bling, may  prove  profitable  to  your  sister,  who  has  need 
of  many  dippings  and  refinings,  ere  nature  is  resigned  and 
sufficiently  subjected.  Fifth  day  were  at  Greenwich,  and 
had  evidence,  I  think,  that  we  were  not  forsaken.  I  trust 
we  shall  ere  long  return  to  the  ark  of  home,  bearing  a 
peace  branch. 

Your  sister,  A.  W. 

To  J.  J . 

Third  day  2d,  1836. 
Beloved  one  : — 'Tis  consistent  with  apostolic  authority 
to  greet  thee  as  a  precious  sister ;  and  having  been 
iravellers  together,  I  hope  truly  so,  in  the  most  compre- 
hensive sense  of  the  word,  I  trust  in  our  rest  and  abiding 
at  home  we  shall  not  be  altogether  separated,  but  know  a 
dwelling  near  in  spirit;  experience  something  like  in- 


190  FAMILIAPw   LETTERS    OF 

habiting  the  Father's  house,  in  which  there  is  bread  enough 
and  to  spare.  Why  then  should  any,  (though  they  may 
have  foolishly  wasted  much,)  perish  with  hunger  ?  Are  we 
not  bound  to  testify,  as  there  is  a  looking  toward  Him 
with  sincere  penitence,  and  such  a  sense  of  unworthiness 
as  to  desire  to  be  received,  even  if  it  be  as  an  hired  ser- 
vant; are  we  not  constrained  to  tell  of  his  embracing 
love,  and  our  reinstatement  into  the  privileges  of  son-ship? 
"  Ye  that  make  mention  of  the  Lord,  keep  not  silent  ; 
speak  of  his  goodness  and  mercy,  not  only  in  your  goings 
out,  but  your  comings  in."  Though  this  be  the  present 
salutation  to  my  mental  ear,  yet  think  not  I  know  an 
abounding  ;  nay,  verily — for  I  do  not  recollect  ever  to 
have  witnessed  a  more  impoverished  state,  particularly  on 
First-day,  insomuch  that  I  would  willingly  have  remained 
behind  when  our  little  gathering  assembled  ;  but  found 
my  safety  and  strength  consisted  not  only  in  going,  but  in 
laboring.  My  little  bark,  since  leaving  thee,  has  greatly 
felt  its  want  of  steadfastness.  Methought,  when  together, 
thou  wert  ballast  and  I  sail ;  but,  ah  I  the  danger,  when 
thus  unfurled  in  air,  of  an  overturn  ;  and  if  too  deeply 
settled  in  the  water,  too  heavily  laden,  even  a  strong  ship 
may  sink  ; — so  that  our  onlj'  surety  is  in  the  presence  of 
the  Master-Pilot,  whose  voice  and  power  presides  over 
wind  and  wave. 

After  leaving  us,  didst  thou  not  almost  want  the  pinions 
of  an  unfettered  bird,  to  wdng  thy  way  swiftly  over  all 
impediments  and  nestle  beside  maternal  affection  1  T  felt 
as  one  without  its  mate.  Feeling  followed  thee  in  thy 
removal  from  me — particularly  when  retired  to  the  cham- 
ber to  occupy  the  couch  alone,  and  a  consciousness  of 
solitude  remained  through  the  night,  interrupting  my 
slumbers,  and  yet  I  desired  none  but  thyself. 


ANN    WILLSON.  191 

To   M.  S AND    SISTERS. 

Port  Elizabeth,  2nd  mo.  23rd,  1836. 
Beloveds  : — You  will  readily  conclude,  it  was  in  no 
light  mood  that  I  turned  away  from  the  Port,  for  the  pur- 
pose of  being  companion  and  armor-bearer,  according  to 
my  little  measure  of  ability,  for  our  valued  friend  J.  J. 
We  may  remember  how  it  was  in  time  gone,  when  an 
assurance  of  the  divine  birth  was  given  and  believed  in. 
There  was  an  arising  and  going  in  haste  to  the  hill-coun- 
tr}',  to  greet  and  encourage  such  as  were  in  affinity. 
And  am  1  not  bound  to  acknowledge  that  the  mission, 
though  very  humbling  and  exercising,  has  been  repaid 
with  peace — that  excellent,  yea,  choice  legacy  from  the 
Master's  own  hand  ?  A  little  note  from  J.,  since  her 
return,  was  expressive  of  her  satisfied  and  comfortable 
state.  Though  very  poor,  if  penniless  we  may  and  do 
fee],  yet  we  find  such  has  heretofore  been  the  case;  even 
the  favored  Israelites  were  obliged  to  gather  daily,  and 
had  nothing  over.  Indeed,  I  have  marvelled  that  such 
little  children  should  be  sent  forth  to  scatter  a  few  crumbs, 
whether  for  the  revival  of  some  humble  infantile  minds, 
or  for  our  own  edification  and  progress  only,  is  best  known 
to  Him  who  manifests  his  creative  power  not  alone  by  its 
magnitude — for  surely  the  smallest  buddings  as  certainly 
denote  life  as  the  expanded  leaf  or  opening  flower. 

'•  Earth's  meanest  shrub,  Heaven's  mightiest  star, 
Alike  bespeak  the  Maker's  care." 

I  have  been  absent  from  our  ain  shealing  about  four 
weeks — the  two  first  were  occupied  in  the  attendance  of 
the  Particular  and  Monthly  Meetings  within  the  limits  of 
Salem  Quarter,  ending  with  Maurice  River,  which  brouglit 


192  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

US  to  the  cheering  resting  place  of  home ;  but  here  was 
time  for  brief  tarriance,  for  after  remaining  little  more 
than  two  days  with  loved  ones,  large  and  small,  we  again 
loosened  anchorage,  and   in   thus  resuming  our  travels, 
renewedly  experienced   the  magnetism,  the  strength   of 
human  affection.      Yet   forcibly    arose   the   recollection, 
"  they  that  love  anything  more  than  me  are  not  worthy  of 
me."     As  for  myself,  I  seemed  hardly  to  have  a  grain  of 
living  efficacious  faith,  and  wonder  not  that  one  formerly 
sought  an  evidence, — "If  it  be  thou,  bid  me  come  to  thee, 
walking  on   the   water."     But,  ah  I  the    weak    element 
yielded  to  the  pressure  of  humanity,  and  perceiving  him- 
self sinking  the  cry  was  for  support :  and  how  consoling, 
how  comforting,  the  remembrance  that  an  arm  of  help  was 
immediately  extended  ;  then  followed  adoration,  with  an 
acknowledgment  of  the  saving  power.     Our  goings  had 
hitherto  been  by  the  aid  of  wheels,  which  were  now  ex- 
changed for  the  sliding  car,  and  surely  even  the  lovers  of 
sleighing  would  be  quite  content  with  a  two  weeks'  ride  in 
the  severest  part  of  this  winter;  the  weather,  however, 
concerned  us  little — our  fears  were  lest  the  cause  should 
suifer.     Earnest  were  the  wishes  that  some  stronger,  some 
greater  than  ourselves,  should  take  the  lead.     When  we 
reached  S ,  without  hearing  aught  of  it,  found  a  stran- 
ger there,  and  then  came  the  evidence  that  we  knew  not 
what  was  best  for  us ;  though^we  had  so  greatly  desired  a 
pillar  of  the  house  behind  which  to  shelter,  yet  in  the  sha- 
dow of  another,  the  frail  plants  withered,  barely  retain- 
ing   life.       Three    meetings    were    thus   attended,    after 
which  the   path  separated,  and  learning  from  the    things 
suffered,  we  were  content  to  go  on  our  own  way.     During 
these  journeying  there  was  the  most  elegant   sleet  1  ever 


ANN    WILLSON.  193 

saw.  The  other  world  has  sometimes  been  described  as 
being  paved  with  gold  ,;  and  truly  this  seemed  set  in  silver. 
We  rode  several  miles  one  moonlight  eve,  and  the  trees 
were  apparently  spangled,  vieing  with  the  starry  firma- 
ment. 

Methinks  the  wish  for  near  dwelling  does  but  increase 
with  years,  and  to  be  taken  as  it  were  to  the  council 
chamber  is  one  of  the  strongest  tokens  of  confidence  and 
deep  affection ;  judgment  is  exercised,  and  the  things 
spoken  of  as  in  the  ear^  are  not  proclaimed  upon  the  house- 
top. Anna. 

To  J.  J . 

Fifth  day  Eve,  1836. 
My  precious  Friend: — The  coming  of  thine  this  after- 
noon was  as  balm  to  me — though  the  response  may  be 
Jittle  more  than  an  affectionate  salutation,  because  of  the 
low  state  of  both  body  and  mind,  yet  rejoicing  in  the 
one  evidence  of  discipleship,  love.  For  thyself  I  thought 
it  was  full  before  ;  but  I  believe  I  can  safely  say  the  late 
mingling  has  caused  an  increase  ;  on  thy  own  account 
I  have  been  thoughtful,  fearing  that  in  being  helpful  to 
and  instructing  me  there  has  been  suffering  to  thyself. 
Methinks  in  this  instance  there  has  been  an  observance 
and  fulfilment  of  the  counsel  of  washing  the  feet,  yea,  and 
wiping  them  with  the  towel  wherewith  Truth  hath 
girded  thee.  Continue,  my  friend,  to  aid  a  little  sister 
whose  desires  are  fervent,  but  flesh  weak;  fear  is  of  late 
much  my  companion,  but  coupled  with  earnest  breathings 
for  preservation.  How  gladly  would  I  be  more  with  thee, 
dear,  and  give  vent  to  some  thoughts  that  rest  weightily 

17 


194'  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

upon  the  mind.     Oh  I  for  more  firm  and  unshaken  trust ; 
for  more  full  reliance  on  the  Author,  sure  and  steadfast. 

Shall  I  acknowledge  to  thee  that  in  yielding  to  that 
which  weakeneth  and  wasteth  the  strength,  (creaturely 
reasoning,)  I  was  disqualified  for  this  morning's  convoca- 
tion, and  retired  to  my  chamber  without  ability  for  any- 
thing but  what  S.  Grubb  terms  sighs  unutterable!  and 
chancing  to  take  up  the  volume  of  instruction  and  correc- 
tion, I  opened  to  the  31st  chapter  of  Jeremiah,  and 
witnessed  the  promises  of  the  restoration  of  Israel,  and 
Divine  care  over  the  church,  to  be  consoling  and  comfort- 


To  J.  J- . 

Third  day  eve,  1836. 
Thine,  dear  Jane,  came  just  before  the  sending  of  this 
to   father's,   to   enclose    in    his  Town    package.     It   was 
delightful  to  see  traces  of  thy  pen,  and  to  find  our  thoughts 
were  mutually  turned  toward  each  other.     The  perusal  of 
it  reminded  me  of  the  situation  of  the  Master,  during  a  sea- 
son of  conflict,  when  he  retired  a  stone's  throw  from  the 
disciples.     I  will  endeavor  patiently  to   wait  till  I  may 
enter  more  fully  into  the  tent  of  the  heart,  and  share  its 
exercised  feelings.     Should  thou,  as  1  hope,  feel  a  liberty 
to  communicate,  withhold  not  from  me,  nor  fear  to  bring 
shade  into  my  path ;  thy  little  friend  is  not  excluded  from 
the  many  variations,  and  has  known    low   and  besetting 
times  since  writing  before.     Oh!  the  excellency  of  such  a 
state  as  becomes  a  pillar,  'Ho  go  no  more  out,"  though  lam 
ready  to  conclude  never  to  be  attained  by  me.     Oh!  that 
we,  my  dear  friend,  might  know  the  kingdom  to  come 
with  power — ability  given  to  rise  above  fears  and  doubt- 


ANN    WILLSON.  195 

ings — but  surely  we  are  (and  I  feel  renewedly  so  at  the 
present  time,)  sensible  that  in  watchfulness  and  prayer 
our  safet}^  is.  There  is  a  durability  about  oak  coals  that 
far  surpasses  the  fleeting  flame  of  the  pine;  but  'tis 
instructive  and  a  little  encouraging  to  me  to  perceive  they 
are  oft  advantageously  used  together."^ 

To  J.  J . 


Seventh  day  afternoon^  1836. 
May  I  not  salute  thee  in  the  bond  of  sistership — in  that 
durable,  yet  extended  affinity,  which  proceeds  from  the 
eternal  source  and  centre  of  affection.  The  journey 
homeward  was  under  a  very  precious  covering,  accom- 
panied I  trust  with  gratitude  in  that  we  had  been  permit- 
ted in  measure  to  mino;le  tog-ether — to  be  united  as  it  were 
in  the  oneness — and  I  was  consoled  in  the  belief  that  there 
were  seasons  in  which  the  large  assembly  had  surrounded 
the  throne  of  mercy  in  intercession  and  thanksgiving — and 
though  my  own  individual  self  had  been  much  humiliated, 
had  experienced  great  prostration  of  the  creature,  yet  had 
I  also  been  deeply  instructed  ;  and  desire  the  rod  and  the 
staff,  may,  as  in  the  days  of  David,  continue  their  correc- 
tion and  comfort.  It  is  truly  pleasant  to  again  settle  in 
our  own  private  nook,  though  some  solicitude  is  almost 
unavoidably  felt  for  the  left  ones  of  the  tribe  ;  but  in  your 
borders  there  is  much  sympathy — much  kindness — there- 
fore I  am   content,  desiring  every  allotment  may   effect 

*  An  allusion  to  a  remark  of  I.  T.  while  accompanying  them  in 
a  religious  visit  a  short  time  previous,  in  which  one  was  compared 
to  oak  and  the  other  to  pine  splinters,  and  that  they  were  often 
used  advantageously  together. 


196 


FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


our  furtherance  and  refinement.     But  however  much  we 
seek  seclusion  and  retreat,  I  am  not  sure  'twill  be  granted; 
and  oh  I  saith  my  heart,  that  "  the  oak"  and  "  the  pine" 
may  still  be  used  together;  for  the  latter  is  so  trashy  and 
unsubstantial,  that  1  almost  fear  the  fire  should  touch  it, 
lest  it  ignite  too  quickly  and  produce  unnecessary  blaze ; 
wilt  thou  not,  beloved  one,  unite  in  secret  wishes  for  the 
increase  of  solidity,  stability,  and  settlement,  that  so  thy 
friend,  whose  ways  are  wandering,  may  centre  upon  the 
immovable  foundation  ?     Our    little  garden  of  animated 
plants,  got  weedy  during  my  absence,  and  attention  has  been 
turned  toward  it,  to  prop  up  the  young  stalks  and  promote 
their  growth,  that  so  as  the  rays  of  the  sun  attract  vegeta- 
tion, in  due  season  producing  leaf  and  blossom,  the  infantile 
mind  may  be  drawn  upward  and  expand  in  the  beamings 
of  heavenly  love.      The  Teacher     having  dismissed  her 
pupils,  resigning   the  school  altogether,  I  have  also  the 
preceptresship  of  our  own  part  devolving  on  me;  though 
in  many  respects  very  inadequate  to  the  charge,  yet  solici- 
tude extends  beyond  our  household,  and  if  qualified,  I  would 
willingly  gather  from  the  highways  and  hedges,  for  really, 
some  of  the  little  articles  seem  to  live  in  the  streets  and 
by  wood  piles  and  fences ;  thou  dost  not  I  suppose  feel 
sufficient  for  the  neglected  ones  wherever  found,  to  war- 
rant such  an  assemblage  even  here.     I  am  ready  to  unite 
in  the  service,  believing  'twould  not  only  benefit  them  but 
myself  too ;  the   example  and   company   of   my  beloved 
friend  would  surely  be  profitable  to  me  as  well  as  them. 
Ah !  I   feel   the  necessity  of  the   Apostle's   advice,  "  to 
watch  and  be  sober." 


ANN    WILLSON.  197 

To  J.  J . 

1836. 

"  Blessed  we  sometimes  are  ; 
Yea,  happy  in  quiet  feelings." 

Such,  beloved  sister,  is  the  present  comfortable  state  ; 
something  like  the  fulfilment  of  the  promise,  that  Zion 
shall  be  remembered,  and  her  poor  fed  ;  this,  though  per- 
haps not  exactly  scriptural,  yet  seems  to  me,  gospel. 

In  our  late  gathering  there  was  a  savor  of  life — a  little 
feeling  of  the  Good  Presence — which  truly  is  the  crown 
of  assemblies.  It  may  be  (sim.ilar  to  one  of  old,)  that  the 
strength  and  encouragement  now  lived  upon  is  the 
remains  of  past  sustenance.  Well,  I  trust  I  am  thank- 
ful for  even  its  supporting  effects.  Some  friends  were 
with  us— A.  P.,  R.  W.,  E.  B.,  &c. ;  but  it  was  not, 
my  dear,  outward  testimony,  but  inward  evidence,  which 
caused  joy  and  gladness.  It  is  when  the  King  is  seen  in 
his  beauty,  and  felt  to  reign,  that  the  people  are  trium- 
phant. There  were  divers  enquiries  after  thee,  and  par- 
ticularly, dear  aunt  Esther,  who  is  a  mother  in  the 
church.  In  this  way  I  had  looked  toward  our  well 
beloved  H.  B.  Her  name  was  brought  before  the  recent 
select  sitting,  with  information  that  Salem  friends  were 
united  in  recommending  her  as  a  minister ;  and  their 
judgment  was  sanctioned.  I  have  long  beheld  her  as 
one  whose  head  was  anointed  with  holy  oil,  and  it  will 
surely,  as  in  the  days  of  Aaron,  continue  to  extend  to  the 
skirts  of  the  garment. 

Our  dear  father  has  been  much  amiss,  so  as  to  be 
inclined  to  tarry  by  the  stuff,  instead  of  going  forth  to  ser- 
vice ;  but  united  efforts  proved  effectual.   It  has  reminded 

17* 


19S  FAMILIAR   LETTERS    OF 

me  of  the  holding  up  of  the  hands  of  one  formerly,  to  the 
prevailing  of  Israel ;  though  still  a  good  deal  unwell,  we 
do  not  consider  him  any  worse  for  the  journey. 

His  indisposition  and  feebleness,  together  with  the 
varyings  of  weather,  prevent  his  frequent  appearings  at 
our  separate  habitations  ;  so  that  We  are  oft  banded  at  the 
parentage.  Yesterday  was  one  of  these  pleasant  and 
privileged  seasons.  We  seldom  thus  meet  without  some 
instruction.  Indeed,  I  have  oft  of  late  thought  of  the 
sun's  decline  ;  that  its  descendings  were  with  increased 
brightness. 

I  need  not  speak  of  the  acceptability  of  thy  epistle — 
suffice  it  to  say,  it  brought  gladness  of  countenance. 

I  hope  the  right  time  for  a  Port  visit  will  come  ; 
meanwhile  dear,  forget  not  apostolic  counsel  to  communi- 
cate. A  strong  desire  to  hear  from  thee  soon,  has  prompt- 
ed the  present  scribblings,  for  I  took  the  pen  with  the 
prospect  of  writing  Eastward,  but  seemed  drawn  toward 
thee.  Very  many  interruptions  from  our  little  tribe  have 
interfered,  and  occasioned  much  blundering,  which  thou 
wilt  please  excuse,  and  receive  the  aboundings  of  love 
from  thy  A.  W. 

To  J.  J 


First  day  afternoon,  1836. 
My  precious  Sister  : — How  I  have  longed  for  commu- 
nion with  thee,  though  I  might  thereby  have  thrown  a 
little  feeling  of  my  burden  over  thee;  participation  is  in 
measure  relieving,  and  the  creature  seeketh  ease.  Alone 
in  the  midst  of  the  sea,  with  the  billows  about  the  head,  is 
indeed  a  fearful  state.  This  situation  was  not  only  expe- 
rienced in  former  days,  but  is  witnessed   now,  also ;  and 


ANN   WlLLsoN.  1^9 

we  marvel  not  that  the  spirits  of  the  disciples  were 
troubled — that  they  doubted — or,  when  venturing  forth 
under  a  deep  sense  of  weakness  the  cry  was,  save. 

My   mind   has,  for  some  time,  been  drawn  toward  our 
Monthly  Meetings   in  the  Fourth    month  ;  and  for  weeks 
past  I  have    believed  the  service  would  not  end  there  ; 
for    my    own   refinement    perhaps,  a  deeper   baptism    is 
required — the  field  of  labor  widens  at  Woodbury — though 
I  yet  think  an  offering  might  be  caught  in  the  thicket,  if 
sufficient   resignation    could    be    attained.      To-day,    has 
been  a  season  of  conflict,  in  which,  as  said  the  Psalmist, 
the  waters  came  up  into  the  very  soul.     AVe  had  com- 
pany to  dine,  but  thy  little  friend  not  being  able  to  main- 
tain  composure,  retired  to  her  own  apartment.      LFnder 
such  pressure,  and  with  such    emotions,  how  delightful 
to  hide   ourselves;  outward  food  not  being  desired,  but  a 
little  bread  handed  in  secret,  with  the  revival  of  the  lan- 
guage, "  I  have  meat  to  eat  which  ye  know  not  of,"  was 
a  sustaining  crumb. 

Please  do  not,  dear,  speak  of  Anna  or  her  prospects. 
I  shrink  from  the  utterance,  and  have  yet  but  partially 
revealed  them  even  to  father.  The  visit  at  your  house  is 
spoken  of  as  very  pleasant ;  I  would  gladly  have  been 
beside  thee,  too.  Oh!  that,  in  each  and  every  allotment, 
we  may  learn  to  cast  our  care  upon  the  Divine  Helper, 
and  be  drawn  to  His  feet  by  motives  such  as  lead  the  tot- 
tering infant  to  its  parent's  arms. 


Anna. 


To  L.  S- 


Port  Elizabeth,  3d  mo.  3d,  1836. 
There  is  somewhere,  I  think,  a  recommendation  even 
to  provoke    one    another  to  good  works,  and  if  a  little 


200  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

utterance  on  my  part  have  this  effect,  it  will  in  the  pre- 
sent instance  answer  the  end  designed,  and  Anna  would 
be  gratified  by  receiving  speedy  intelligence  of  her  friend ; 
a  name  which  embraces  much,  and  the  nature  of  which, 
methinks,  is  to  heighten  the  joys  and  soothe  the  sorrows  of 
life.  Sister  pilgrims,  as  we  are,  how  greatly  might  the 
little  asperities  of  the  path,  be  softened  and  smoothed  by 
companionship !  It  was  while  the  disciples  were  jour- 
neying and  communing  together,  that  the  Master  drew 
near  and  expounded  unto  them  the  things  concerning 
himself,  and  they  were  not  only  fed  and  refreshed  in  his 
presence,  but  their  eyes  were  opened  to  know  Him,  and 
they  rose  up  the  same  hour,  and  went  forth  and  testified 
thereof.  Do  not  some,  when  a  little  favored,  find  them- 
selves bound  to  the  same  acknowledgment  ?  But  we 
may  remember  how  it  was  that  after  being  led  out  and 
witnessing  a  blessing,  he  was  parted  from  them ;  and 
oh  I  saith  my  spirit,  that  even  in  absence,  ability  might 
be  afforded  to  continue  in  the  temple,  worshipping  and 
praising  •  yea,  that  conduct  and  converse  might  convey 
adoration  and  thanks.  Thou  hast  doubtless  heard  of  some 
late  goings  and  doings,  to  what  purpose  He  best  knows 
who  uses  what  instruments  he  will,  and  is  at  times  pleased 
to  manifest  himself  through  the  weakest,  whereby  is  left 
no  glorying  for  the  flesh.  Truly,  some  have,  like  one  of 
old,  to  plead  inability  to  perform  the  appointed  missions ; 
little  children  are  required  to  do  errands,  to  wait  upon 
those  who  gather  to  the  table  ;  that  so  portions  of  bread  may 
be  duly  supplied,  and  water  dealt  out.  My  beloved  friend 
J.  J.  and  self,  were  four  weeks,  in  the  depth  of  winter, 
wanderers  in  the  earth,  but  the  inclemency  and  severity 
of  the  season  disturbed  us  not  much.     Many  provings  and 


ANN    WILLSON. 


201 


baptisms  were  experienced,  and  ardent  were  the  desires 
for  the  right  fulfilment  of  allotted  duties,  that  so  there 
might  be  a  returning  to  the  ark  of  home,  bearing  a  peace- 
branch.  I  was  as  armor-bearer,  yet  had  to  remember  that 
such  were  sometimes  sent  forth  to  service,  while  he  on 
whom  the  work  devolved  remained  behind,  till  a  more 
general  engagement.  Ah !  we  find  it  is  not  the  hearers 
but  the  doers  that  are  justified.  Dost  thou  not  with  me 
earnestly  covet  an  increase  of  faith  and  ability  to  act  con- 
sistently therewith  ?  Were  I  to  give  an  outline  of  feel- 
ings and  movements,  I  might  weary  thee,  beside  that  the 
present  is  a  state  of  such  nothingness  and  entire  empti- 
ness that  my  business  seems  to  be  to  endeavor  to  keep 
the  vessel  clean.  Alas  !  the  dust  which  our  own  worldly 
mindedness  stirs  up — and  how  it  settles  upon  that  which 
should  be  kept  unsoiled  and  fit  for  use  I  In  this  season  of 
desertion,  I  am  comforted  in  the  recollection  that  for- 
merly, as  now,  the  Master,  after  saying  many  things, 
departed  and  did  hide  himself  from  them.  A  widowed 
mind  mourns.  Thus  is  fulfilled  the  language,  "  The  days 
come  when  the  bridegroom  shall  be  taken  away,  and  then 
shall  there  be  fasting."  Spring,  with  its  renovating 
influence,  is  just  setting  foot  upon  the  land.  After  so 
long  and  firmly  maintained  a  winter,  how  cheering  will 
be  its  vivifying  track  I  Would  that  a  similar  influence 
be  extended  to  our  spirits — that  so  life  and  verdure  ap- 
pear and  the  song  of  the  warbler  be  heard,  accompanied 
with  "  rise  up  and  come  away." 

To  L.  S . 

3d  mo.,  1836. 
Whither  is  thy  beloved  One,  my  precious  sister,  whither 
is  thy  Beloved  turned  aside  1    Let  me  seek  him  with  thee  ; 


202  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

and  is  not  the  reply  now  as  formerly,  He  is  gone  to  feed 
in  the  gardens  and  gather  lilies  ?  Well  we  know  how  it 
is  Avith  our  own  little  cultivated  spot — there  was  first  a 
digging,  a  turning  up  of  the  earth,  and  even  breaking  and 
crumbling  the  lumps  thereof,  and  scarcely  a  blade  of 
grass  is  to  be  seen  in  a  well  prepared  soil,  but  in  that 
unsightly  and  apparently  worthless  state  it  receives  the 
seed,  which  remains  for  a  while  buried  in  its  bosom,  but 
ere  long  the  genial  influence  of  the  sun  brings  forth  the 
young  plants,  which  are  nourished  and  matured  by 
warmth  and  moisture ;  so,  assuredly,  after  this  prepara- 
tory state,  methinks  the  beamings  of  the  Father's  love 
will  be  upon  the  heart;  yea,  verdure  and  flowers  in  due 
time  appear,  equal  in  beauty  and  purity  to  the  unsullied 
lily ;  then  follows  the  acknowledgment,  "  I  am  my 
beloved's,  and  my  beloved  is  mine  ;  he  feedeth,"  &c. 
'■'■  awake,  oh  north  wind,  and  come  thou  south — blow  upon 
my  garden,  that  the  spices  thereof  may  flow  out ;  let  him 
come  unto  his  garden  and  eat  his  pleasant  fruits." 

28^A. — The  above,  my  dear  Lydia,  though  written 
some  days  ago,  with  a  prospect  of  continuing  on  to  the 
end  of  the  sheet,'and  then  despatching  the  epistolary  mes- 
senger on  its  way,  will,  if  it  be  not  of  to-day's  date,  evi- 
dence that  my  thoughts  have  been  with  thee.  Y"es,  my  dear, 
T  am  a  companion  with  thee  in  strippedness,  in  provings, 
and  seeming  utter  desertions  ;  and  wonder  not  the  apostle 
considered  it  a  great  attainment  becomingly  to  bear 
aboundings  and  abasement.  Of  the  former  we  cannot 
boast  much  participation,  but  some  deep  dippings  of  the 
latter,  may  remind  us  of  those  followers  who  thought  the 
Master's  sayings  hard,  querying  who  can  bear  them,  and 
turning  away,  went  no  more  after  him.     Thus  we  ma}^ 


ANN    WILLSON. 


203 


perceive  the  danger  of  giving  too  great  place  to  discour- 
agement. Trul}',  there  is  a  povv*er  that  can,  that  will,  if 
trusted  in,  overcome  difficulties,  as  we  become  resigned, 
fully  yielding  ourselves  to  its  restraining  circumscribing 
limitations.  Yea,  the  yoke  will  be  rendered  easy  and 
the  burden  made  light.  Then  let  us  give  thanks  and 
take  fresh  courage ;  believing  that  greater  is  He  that  is  in 
us  than  he  that  is  in  the  world — greater  is  the  grace 
wherewith  we  are  mercifully  gifted  and  abilitated  to 
resist  temptation  and  besetment,  than  the  opposing  trans- 
gressing natures.  Dost  thou  expect  to  gather  with  the 
Annual  Assembly  ?  I  hope  so,  and  that  we  may  meet,  and 
be  comforted  together  in  partaking  of  a  few  crumbs  from 
the  table.  We  have  had  a  very  agreeable  guest  from  the 
city  of  P.,  in  whom  methinks,  dwells  much  amiability 
and  excellence — much  salt  of  the  kingdom.  Some  friends 
from  Mount  H.  are  here,  and  will  have  meetings  about 
the  vicinity  for  several  days,  I  expect.  I  would  ihou 
wert  here,  for  does  not  life  beget  life  ?  Even  the  bones 
of  the  prophet,  when  lowered  into  the  earth,  by  touching 
a  dead  body,  caused  it  to  revive  3  therefore,  however 
poor — however  low  and  little  we  may  feel — let  us  not 
despond-  the  same  wonder-working  power  remains,  aud 
is  as  able  to  raise  up  children  unto  Abraham  now  as  for- 
merly. To  be  sensible  of  our  own  insufficiency,  of  our 
own  nothingness;  to  know  our  great  want  and  depen- 
dence, is  a  proof  of  existence;  and  in  this  situation  the 
breathings  of  the  spirit  are,  "  a  Saviour,  or  I  die,  a  Redeem- 
er, or  I  perish  ;"  but  surely  the  sincere  petitioner  will  not 
be  turned  away,  for  there  is  still  healing  balm  in  Gilead, 
and  a  Physician  there.  I  wish,  my  beloved  friend,  thou 
wouldst  write  more  frequently   and  more  freely.     I  am 


20-i  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

sometimes  favored  with  written  messages  from  dear  E.  P., 
which  are  full  of  instruction,  and  willingly  would  I  share 
the  edifying  morsels  with  thee,  were  we  near  each  other ; 
but  it  is  not  thus,  and  let  us  not,  dear  one,  lean  upon 
flesh,  but  desire  for  each  other  diligence  and  obedience  in 
our  different  and  separate  allotments;  believing  as  each 
child  is  found  performing  the  little  required,  there  will 
be  a  dwelling  together  in  the  Father's  love,  which  is  the 
summit  of  all  situations. 

Anna. 

To  J.  J . 

Third  day  afternoon,  1836. 
Thine,  my  dear  J.,  was  most  cordially  received.  Yea, 
I  too  think  there  is  a  sistcrship  of  spirit  in  which  we  can 
salute  each  other, joying  or  sorrowing  together;  and  my 
heart  participates  in  thy  prospect,  desiring  that  the 
will  of  the  Master  may  be  fulfilled.  Yet,  to  myself,  the 
present  is  a  season  in  which  there  is  neither  earing  nor 
harvest — nay,  but  the  lack  of  even  a  sustaining  crumb;  and 
it  has  been  thus,  much  of  the  time  since  the  strong  attrac- 
tion Eastward,  with  which  I  saw  no  way  to  compl}''  ; 
beside  that,  the  sense  of  weakness  was  so  great  that  I  con- 
cluded perhaps  I  was  altogether  mistaken,  and  might  be 
cherishing  imaginary  feelings;  but,  truly  have  I  found 
those  who  do  not  work  must  not  expect  to  eat ;  and  feel 
now  as  if  for  a  solitary  morsel  I  could  go  far.  But  we 
may  remember  how  it  was  with  Israel  of  old  who  refused? 
and  afterward  going  without  requirement,  fell  before  their 
enemies.  Oh  !  that  in  this  alienated  state  I  could  adopt 
the  resigned  language  of  one  formerly — "  though  the  fig 
tree  shall  not  blossom,  neither  shall  fruit  be  in  the  vines? 


AAN    WILLiOx\.  205 

and  there  shall  be  no  herd  in  the  stalls,  yet  will  I  rejoice," 
^c.  My  spirit  is  with  thee,  and  my  thoughts  almost  con- 
tinually dwell  in  fellowship,  but  that  is  all  I  feel  any 
capacity  for,  and  think  I  am  thankful  for  even  a  sensibility 
of  the  preciousness  of  the  best  life,  with  which,  if  again 
favored,  I  trust  I  shall  be  willing  to  yield  all  for  its  sake. 
It  now  seems  as  if  my  little  bark  was  moored  for  the 
winter.  Would  that  I  could  say,  by  permission  j  for  then 
the  heart  would  have  the  safe  anchorage  of  peace  ;  but  is 
this  in  accordance  with  the  design  of  the  heavenly  cap- 
tain, while  there  is  even  so  small  a  portion  of  freight  ? 
I  was  among  those  who  welcomed  the  return  of  our  dear 
father,  and  feel  that  it  is  a  blessing  to  be  of  his  household; 
but  I  have  been  almost  as  one  dumb,  experiencing  so  much 
secret  sadness  ;  and  wonder  not  that  while  the  harp  is  upon 
the  willow,  Zion's  children  cannot  sing. 

There  is  oft  a  composure  about  the  pillow  ;  so  methought 
last  night,  while  in  a  thoughtful  mood  toward  day  ;  and  as 
the  eastern  dawnings  increased,  I  was  cheered  with  a 
belief  that  if  aroused  and  watchful,  the  first  rays  of  morn- 
ing would  be  discovered,  and  there  would  eventually  be 
a  rejoicing  in  the  light.  Then,  I  trust,  while  it  remains 
there  will  be  a  walking  in  it,  lest  the  night  again  come,  in 
which  no  path  can  be  found  for  the  traveller's  foot. 

My  love  to  dear  S.  J.  L.  I  hope  she  has  witnessed  an 
increase  of  best  strength.  Oh !  that  we  may  indi- 
vidually be  engaged  in  whatsoever  the  hands  find  to  do — 
cheerfully  and  with  a  willing  mind — for  to  such  is  the 
good  of  the  land.  In  nearness  and  unity  beyond  expres- 
sion, farewell. 

A. 

18 


206  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


To  J.  J . 

1th  mo.  28tL  1836. 


With  an  old  pen,  and  a  mere  fragment  of  leisure  time, 
I  sit  down  to  speak  to  thee,  dear  one,  toward  whom  thought 
is  oft  affectionately  wending  its  way  ;  and  were  it  not  for 
the  steady  engagement  of  hands,  in  these  days  of  agency  for 
my  invalid  sister,  I  should,  I  expect,  be  pretty  frequent  in 
inky  visits ;  not  because  there  is  abundance  in  my  house — 
quite  the  reverse — but  only  from  the  promptings  of  that 
love  which  I  trust  is  durable  and  pure.  The  counsel  of 
the  Master  was  that  we  wash  one  another's  feet.  Oh  I 
that  this  may  be  more  fully  and  effectually  done  by 
Him  who  surely  is  still  disposed  to  perform  the  purifying 
office  ;  and  I  believe  there  are  among  us  those  who,  though 
they  at  first  shrink  from  feelings  of  unworthiness,yet,  with 
the  disciple  formerly,  are  ready  to  desire  it  not  only  for 
the  feet,  but  head  and  hands  also. 

Whither  is  thy  spirit  attracted  1  Toward  East  Jersey, 
I  hope.  It  is  a  part  of  the  vineyard  near  to  my  heart,  and 
of  late  increasingly  so  ;  but  I  seem  to  dwindle,  and  what 
can  I  do  but  breathe  petitions  for  the  aid  of  more  efficient 
laborers,  and  that  after  the  planting  and  watering,  it  may 
please  Him  with  whom  alone  is  the  power,  to  give 
increase.  Sweetly  consoling  arises  the  language  of  the 
Psalmist,  "  pray  for  the  peace  of  Jerusalem ;  they  shall 
prosper  that  love  her." 

Do  not,  my  dear,  understand  the  preceding  as  expres- 
sive of  any  movements  myself;  but  I  would  strengthen,  I 
would  encourage  others  in  the  work.  To  none  but  thee, 
who  has  access  to  the  chambers  of  my  heart,  have  these 
feelings  been  revealed;  and  yet,  1  find  we  are  not  wholly 


ANN    WILLSON.  '207 

excusable  because  of  littleness ;  the  ants,  though  so 
very  small,  are  very  diligent  and  industrious  ;  and  in 
agriculture,  even  children  are  employed  to  drop  the  grains 
of  corn,  while  some  one  else  follows  with  a  covering 
implement;  but  why  talk  I  thus  to  thee?  It  is  that  I 
know  thou  art  interested  in  and  willing  to  share  a  sister's 
concerns. 

I  have  been  anxious  to  hear,  and  have  greatly  wondered 
what  can  have  happened  to  one  who  has  been  long  in  the 
field — has  borne  the  burden  and  heat  of  the  day — and 
seemed  nearly  ready  to  enter  into  rest ;  but  yet  know 
nothing  more  than  the  allusion  to  the  subject  in  thine. 
Do  write,  and  make  known  to  us  the  whole  matter,  though 
it  be  an  occasion  of  sorrow.  I  hope  the  shield  has  not 
been  cast  away  ;  the  shield  of  the  chosen  as  though  not 
anointed  with  oil.  These  things  are  deeply  trying,  and 
yet  beloved  one,  we  are  sensible  the  Truth,  the  Princi- 
ple, remains  the  same,  if  all  leave  it.  Let  us,  therefore, 
instead  of  being  moved  thereby,  earnestly  seek  to  be  girt 
about  with  renewed  strength.  Does  not  the  language  of 
the  Master  continue  to  be,  '^  will  ye  also  go  away  ?" 
Ah!  we  surely  feel  that  there  is  no  confidence  in  the  flesh; 
Peter  proved  that  human  nature  knew  not  its  own  weak- 
ness. 

How  is  th}"  sister  S.  ?  Has  the  soothing  voice  of  "peace 
be  still,"  calmed  the  billows  of  her  heart?-  I  trust  good 
will  proceed  from  seeming  evil.  Had  the  storm  not 
arisen,  would  the  disciples  have  been  induced  to  call  the 
Master,  who  was,  and  oft  is,  in  the  hinder  part  of  the 
ship  ? 


208  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


TO     THE    SAME. 

2d  mo.  1837. 

Dearly  as  I  love  thee,  my  precious  friend,  I  do  not  feel 
as  if  I  should  say  much  just  now — quietness  is  upon  my 
heart  and  my  tongue — and  I  have  sometimes  thought  it 
seemed  as  if  the  end  of  things  was  near — thou  will  doubt- 
less understand  aright — the  finish  I  mean  of  my  own  way 
and  will ;  and  in  my  very  little  measure,  am  I  prepared  to 
comprehend  the  language  of  the  apostle  when  he  said, 
"  henceforth  know  I  no  man  after  the  flesh."  Ah  !  full 
well  do  I  know,  from  living  experience,  that  there  must 
and  should  be  a  seeking  to  lose  the  natural  life ;  and  yet  I 
do  not  believe  the  intention  is  to  weaken  our  attachments, 
but  properly  regulate  them,  that  so  the  love  of  the  Father 
may  prevail  over  all.  I  would  that  my  faith  was  equal  to 
dear  uncle  I.'s — that  sufficient  strength  will  be  afforded; 
but  wayward  and  unworthy  child  as  I  am,  I  cannot  but 
fear,  and  like  the  poor  disciple,  when  walking  upon  the 
waves,  am  ready  to  utter,  ^'  save,  or  I  perish." 

I  trust  with  the  right  time  there  will  be  renewedly  a 
resurrection.  In  close  aflinity  and  nearness  farewell,  and 
please  let  us  hear  from  thee  ere  long. 

To  J.  J . 


First  day  afternoon,  2d  mo.  1837. 
Thine,  my  beloved  friend,  was  duly  and  joyfully  re- 
ceived, and  I  rejoiced  to  hear  the  service  ended  to  thy 
own  satisfaction,  and  I  doubt  not  also  to  the  honor  of  the 
Eternal  Helper.  Whatsoever  ye  do,  said  an  eminent  one 
formerly,  let  it  be  to  the  glory  of  God.  I  did  not  fear  for 
thee,  but  my  sympathy  was  deep  and  strong ;  the  soul  of 


ANN    WILLSON.  209 

Jonathan  was  knit  to  that  of  David,  by  the  power  of  en- 
during love.  Are  wc  not  witnesses  of  this  holy  affection? 
Yea,  and  it  is  precious.  It  was  comfortable  to  find  I  was 
not  only  closely  kept  in  thy  own  memory,  but  queried 
after  by  divers  among  whom  your  lot  was  cast.  And  now, 
shall  I  tell  thee,  after  a  season  of  much  conflict  I  am  ena- 
bled to  salute  thee  under  a  covering  of  calmness  and 
serenity  ;  humbly  thankful  unto  Him  who  bows  and  bap- 
tizes— yea,  kills  to  make  more  intensely  alive  unto  him- 
self— in  His  own  time  raising  the  drooping  mind,  and  af- 
fording a  little  ability  to  take  fresh  courage. 

An  "  altar  of  earth  shalt  thou  make  me,  and  in  all 
places  whither  I  send  thee,  I  will  come  unto  thee  and 
bless  thee."  This  resignedness  is  but  one  step }  the  work 
is  yet  to  do  ;  but  I  comfortingly  remember  what  the 
Master  himself  said,  "  'tis  not  I  that  doeth  it,  but  the 
Father  worketh  in  me."  I  ardently  covet  passiveness  and 
creaturely  submission,  that  so  the  truth  may  not  be  dis- 
honored. And  what,  dear  one,  is  thy  present  business? 
for  idlers  we  are  not  designed  to  be,  neither  can  we  live 
upon  the  labors  of  yesterday  ;  there  must  continue  to  be  a 
little  tilling  and  sowing,  else  a  gathering  season  will  not 
be  known. 

Our  Monthly  Meeting  has  just  passed.  It  was  long, 
and  thy  little  friend  had  much  part  in  its  exercises.  How 
is  it  with  thee  ?  art  thou  clear  of  us — or  ought  thou  to 
have,  as  I  would  willingly  hope,  participation  in  the  pros- 
pect before  me  of  going  from  house  to  house?  And  would 
that  I  could  say  with  the  apostle,  eating  with  gladness  and 
singleness  of  heart.  But,  alas  I  I  have  many  fears  for 
myself  and  the  cause.  Do  come,  if  thou  feels  any  con- 
strainings  of  spirit  towards  ns,  not   only  for  the  sake  of 

1 S* 


210  FAMILIAR,    LETTERS  OF 

strengthening  feeble  hands,  but  lest  the  royal  banner  be 
not  skilfully  unfurled.   Our  Quarterly  Meeting  at  Woods- 
town  occurs  next   week  ;   until  after  that  I  expect  no 
movement  will  be  made.     I  had  the  unity,  and  I  was 
ready  to  say  the  blessing  of  my  friends,  which  was   very 
grateful,  and   savored  of  patriarchal  days  ;   but  alas  !  faith 
sometimes  almost  wavers.     To  trust  in  human  benediction 
would  be  leaning   on    earth  5   instead  whereof  I  greatly 
desire  there  may  be,  as  cousin  A.  T.  sweetly  expressed  it,  a 
going  forth,  resting  only  upon  the  staff,  that  so  the  return 
may  be  with  abounding.     This  visit  is  to  the  members  of 
our  own  meeting.     Dost  thou  not   marvel  at  the   child's 
undertaking?     Ah,  'tis  a  subject  of  surprise  to  herself,  and 
consent  thereto  has  had  its  purchase  price.     Please  accept 
sister's  love,  mine  thou  always  hast,  and  do  let  me  hear 
from  thee  very  soon. 

A.  W. 

To  S.  A.  W— . 

Sixth  day,  P.  .¥.,  1837. 
Notwithstanding  Anna  feels  much  spent,  in  conse- 
quence of  some  little  services  in  our  green  enclosures, 
yet  am  I  not  disposed  to  neglect  to-morrow's  direct 
conveyance,  as  my  thoughts  have,  for  days  past,  been 
wending  toward  thee,  with  a  secret  belief  there  was 
a  reciprocation.  Yes,  and  my  beloved  S.  A.,  I  trust  our 
friendship  is  of  such  incorruptible  nature  as  needs  not 
inky  symbols  to  preserve  it;  still,  I  have  frequently  found 
it  was  animating  and  strengthening  to  be  remembered 
in  expression,  so  that  the  mind  and  body,  while  con- 
tinued in  companionship,  may  be  help-mates,  by  com- 
forting, cheering  and   cherishing  one  another.     I  was 


ANN    WILLSON.  211" 

much  disappointed  in  the  ability  of  this  frail  fr^ime, 
and   the  little    opportunity  afiorded  me   of   being  with 
you,  and  enjoying  that  intercourse  which  is  so  pleasant, 
and  often  preciously  edifying;  but,  my  dear,  however 
separated   and  distant,   it   is  consoling  to  believe  there 
is  a  communion-table  at  which  we  are  at  times  merci- 
fully permitted  to  sit  down  together.     I  am  now  gradu- 
ally gaining,  though   still  very   slender   dependance  in 
the  domestic  department.     I  behold  the  little  lambkins 
of  our  flock  with  almost  maternal  fondness,  and  would 
willingly  say  to    these   hands,  do   whatsoever  ye  find 
to  do.      Dost   thou  not,  with  me,  consider  it   cause  of 
gratitude    that    attachment    to    home    is    so    strongly 
implanted  in   the  human    mind,  that,  even  when  our 
footway  lies  in   chosen  paths,  the  return    to  our  own 
little  domain,  seems    like  getting  back  to   sunny  side, 
where  the  heart  may  yield  itself   up  to    the  warmest, 
liveliest  emotions  of  its  nature— ope  the  floodgates  of 
affection,  and  suffer  the  restrained  current  to  bound  on 
toward  the  ocean  of  love  unlimited  1    And  I  rejoice  in 
feeling  an  increase  of  such  emanations,  as  proceed  like 
the  rays  of  the  solar  orb,  from  the  fountain  of  Light, 
Life  and  Love,  and  which   unite   in   an  heavenly  band 
the   whole  family   and  heritage,   thus    producing  that 
holy  alliance,    against   which   no   power     can   prevail. 
Notwithstanding  the  journey,  and  their   being  so  long 
deprived  of  nourishment  from  mother  earth,  several  of 
thy  green  gifts    are  not  only  living,   but    lively.     We 
have  been  enlarging  and  improving  the  yard  considera- 
bly, and  I  hope,  ere  the  season  wears  away,  to  be  able 
to    introduce  thee  to   the  whole  concern   of  beloveds, 
both  animate  and  inanimate. 


212  FAMILIAH    LETTERS    OF 


To  M.  S- 


Port  Elizabeth  6th  mo.  1st,  1837. 
My  Deak  Cousins  : — You  are  prepared  for  company, 
therefore  let  me  be  numbered  with  the  Rivington 
street  guests,  at  least  in  idea;  and  though  an  addi- 
tional chair,  or  an  added  potato  may  not  be  needful  for 
the  entertainment  of  the  invisible  visitor,  yet  she  may 
be  a  tax  upon  your  attention  and  thoughts.  Indeed, 
were  I  a  maiden  of  my  own  way  and  will,  the  present 
annual  gathering  would  not  have  found  me  in  the 
distance.  But  do  not  understand  the  fastening  to 
home  to  be  merely  temporal,  for  sister  cannot  bear  my 
enjoyments  to  be  at  all  retrenched  by  her  affairs.  Ah  ! 
I  am  indeed  surrounded  by  kindness,  and  my  lines,  as 
saith  the  Psalmist,  are  truly  cast  in  pleasant  places. 
But,  when  we  are  endeavoring  to  do  what  is  right  and 
best,  we  very  sensibly  feel  our  two-fold  nature,  and 
find  there  is  a  place  for  the  body  as  well  as  mind  ; 
therefore  am  I  content  to  abide  within  the  "Port" 
vicinity,  even  though  there  may  be  tidings  of  greater 
plenty,  in  a  far  off*  land.  The  coming  of  yours  was 
truly  acceptable.  Ah  !  how  oft  are  we  reminded  that 
earthly  joys  are  fading  and  fleeting  !  We  were  sur- 
prised to  hear  of  the  departure  of  J.  S.,  but  were  much 
comforted  in  the  account  of  his  peaceful  close. 

*'  Dust  to  its  narrow  house  beneath — 

Soul  to  its  place  on  high." 
And   deeply  interested,  too,    in   the  description  of  R. 
H.'s  latest  movements.     Truly,  existence  is  brief,   and 
the  more  forcibly  I  feel  it   so,  methinks  the  more  full 
and  strong  are  feelings  of  affection.      Would  then,  see- 


ANN    WILLSON.  213 

mg  that  days  are  few,  we  might  more  frequently  drink 
the  cup  of  union.  Would  it  not  be  to  mutual  refresh- 
ment 1 — and  though  I  am  for  the  present  bound  to 
home,  the  time  of  loosening  may  come;  meanwhile 
turn,  I  desire  you,  your  steps  hither  5  I  think  affec- 
tion's pilgrimage  should  at  least  be  annual.  A. 


To  J.  J- 


Second  day^  6th  mo.^  1838. 

Mv  Dear  J. — 'Tis  scarcely  needful  to  say  with  what 
cordiality  thine  was  received  ;  my  thoughts  had  been 
particularly  with  thee  in  the  invisible  communion  ; 
surely  'tis  very  comforting  and  confirming  to  seeking 
minds,  to  feel  this  unity  and  fellowship,  not  only  with 
one  another,  but  with  the  Source  of  excellency.  Can 
we  not  understand,  at  least  according  to  our  little 
measure,  what  was  said  to  the  disciples  formerly, 
when  they  queried  how  is  it  that  Thou  wilt  manifest 
Thyself  unto  us,  and  not  unto  the  world  1 

I  shotild  have  been  truly  glad  to  have  seen  thee  at 
our  Quarter  ;  then  might  we  have  mingled  more  fully, 
though  I  should  not  have  wished  thee  to  share  my 
state,  for  it  was  to  me  a  season  af  fasting  rather  than 
feasting,  my  heart  being  elsewhere  bound.  Toward  a 
little  part  of  East  Jersey,  my  thoughts  were  strongly 
attracted  ;  but  the  day  was  suffered  to  pass,  and  in  the 
night  nothing  can  be  done  profitably  ;  and  yet  I  do  not 
think  there  is  liberty  to  settle  down  at  home  ;  neither 
do  I  feel,  dear  one,  as  if  I  could  give  thee  a  satisfac- 
tory answer — and  this  situation,  this  dilemma,  appears 
not  to  be  new,  for  we  may  remember  the  language  was, 


^14*  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

"  what  I  do,  ye  know  not  now,  but  ye  shall  know 
hereafter."  There  seenns  a  requirement  like  that  of 
seeking  him  who  beareth  the  pitcher  of  water,  with  the 
query,  where  is  the  guest-chamber,  that  we  may  pre- 
pare for  the  passover  1  but  perhaps  the  time  has  not 
fully  come — besides  that,  I  recollect  myself,  my  very 
small  measure  of  ability,  my  want  of  stability  and 
solidity.  While  thus  giving  place  to  discouragement, 
and  pondering  on  these  things,  the  case  of  the  several 
servants  and  their  different  qualifications  arose  instruc- 
tively ;  it  was  the  one-talented  who  withheld  exertion 
and  occupancy  ;  it  was  he  also,  who  received  censure — ■ 
yea,  condemnation,  because  of  wrapping  up  his  portion 
and  hiding  it  in  the  earth,  instead  of  using  and  improv- 
ing. But  I  wish  not  to  shade  thy  mind  ;  thou  wilt 
perceive  my  wilderness  situation,  and  until  the  cloud 
be  lifted  from  the  tabernacle,  there  will  for  me  be 
no  safe  movement.  As  regards  Mount  Holly  limits,  I  do 
not  think  I  have  much  to  do,  except  that  were  I  near, 
I  should  be  quite  willing  to  go  with  thee  to  a  little 
neglected  meeting  of  which  we  then  talked,  but  I  do 
not  recollect  the  name;  therefore  go,  my  dear,  as  thou 
feels  it  best  and  right ;  sisterly  desires  and  sympathy 
be  with  thee ;  though  trying,  it  is  doubtless  best  to 
stand  as  with  the  feet  in  the  bottom  of  Jordan,  until 
furnished  with  stones  of  memorial.  Yes,  beloved  one, 
thou  art  right  with  regard  to  us  more  than  a  twelve- 
month since  ;  'twas  a  precious  season,  in  which  spirits 
were  banded  in  heavenly  affinity  ;  and  I  also  am 
inclined  to  believe  we  shall  again  be  united  in  labor 
and  recompense. 


ANN     WILLSON.  215 


To  L.  S- 


Port  Elizabeth,  Gth  mo.  18,  1837. 
My  Dear  L. — Is  there  not  a  secret  greeting  of 
thought  during  this  silent  season?  Methinks  so  5  for  I 
am  not  inclined  to  believe  that  in  rendering  the  first 
tribute  of  affection  to  the  Author  of  it  all,  there  will  be 
any  abatement  in  the  secondary  offering  to  beloved  fellow 
pilgrims.  Would  it  not  be  very  natural  for  the  children 
of  one  common  parent  to  feel  interested  in  conversing 
about  the  affairs  of  the  Father's  house,  and  to  encourage 
one  another  to  diligence  and  industry  therein,  though  a 
poorer  than  myself  (if  at  all  within  the  threshold)  methinks 
there  can  hardly  be.  I  marvel  not  that  the  disciples 
aforetime  desired  to  be  taught  how  to  pray,  and  that  the 
Master,  knowing  that  they  knew  not  what  was  best  for 
themselves,  directed  that  they  should  petition  for  daily 
bread,  that  so,  true  nourishment  might  be  experienced. 
There  are  times  of  great  want  in  my  dwelling.  But 
how  was  it  formerly  ?  Did  not  the  patriarchs  journey 
when  there  was  scarcity  in  the  land,  seeking  a  place  of 
greater  plenty  and  digging  wells  for  the  refreshment  of 
themselves  and  families  ?  Let  us,  then,  renew  our  trust 
and  confidence  in,  yea,  and  obedience  to  that  unfailing 
Power,  which  ever  has  and  ever  will  sustain  and  support 
dependent  ones  ;  and  though  we  may  have  to  pass  through 
a  long  night  season,  wrestling  as  did  one  of  old,  and  hear- 
ing the  language,  ''  let  me  go  for  the  day  breaketh,"  may 
we  instructively  remember  his  example ;  remit  not  in 
desire,  loose  not  our  hold  until  the  blessing  be  received. 
There  is  a  little  gathering  at  the  Parentage  this  after- 
noon, but  my  thoughts  were  toward  thee,  and  is  there  not 


216  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

a  reciprocation?  I  will  think  so;  and  hope  we  may  not 
only  be  diligent  in  whatsoever  work  is  meeted  unions,  but 
also  feel  in  duty  bound  ''to  communicate"  as  well  as  do 
good,  recollecting  'tis  an  apostolic  injunction.  Ail  love 
thee,  and  all  would  welcome  thee  to  our  borders.  Sister 
and  husband  are  at  father's,  but  I  know  they  unite  in  the 
offering  of  affection,  and  wilt  thou  soon  tell  of  thy  own 
being  and  doing,  and  thus  gratify  thy  strongly  attached 

A.  W. 

To  J.  J . 


First  day  afternoon^  Mh  mo.  1838. 
My  precious  Sister  : — Thy  note  met  with  some  deten- 
tion on  its  Port-ward  way,  and  reached  me  not  'till  this 
morning;  but  sooner  or  later,  truly  welcome  was  the  little 
folio — for  written,  as  I  trust  we  are,  upon  the  tablet  of 
each  other's  heart,  our  thoughts  are,  methinks,  oft  min- 
gling in  sweet  companionship  ;  and  yet  expression  is  not 
only  pleasant,  but  comforting  and  confirming  ;  and,  in  the 
present  instance,  proves  us  sojourning  together  in  a  low 
spot ;  but  let  us  remember  this  is  not  a  new  situation,  for 
even  the  Master  hinnself  was  not  unfrequently  found  in  a 
desert  place.  And  yet  nature  so  much  prefers  scenes  of 
fertility  and  joy,  so  much  covets  that  this  cup  should  pass, 
that  I  have  been  ready  to  desire  that  now,  when  the  earth 
is  robed  in  verdure  and  loveliness,  our  spirits  touched  by 
the  same  quickening  and  vivifying  power,  might  be 
clothed  in  gladness,  rather  than  sadness,  and  thus  the  tem- 
poral and  spiritual,  the  visible  and  invisible  world  might 
together  harmonize  ;  or  in  the  language  of  the  Psalmist  re- 
foice  and  sing  praises.  But  alas  I  I  have  yet  much  to  war 
with  before  the  "  old  inhabitants  "  of  the  land  are  utterly 


ANN    WILLSOxN.  217 

overcome.  Cousin  A.,  with  propriety,  too,  exercised  in 
small  measure  the  office  of  eldership  yesterday,  because  of 
the  indulgence  of  feelings  that  savored  of  discouragement. 
Truly  there  are  seasons  when  strength  ebbs,  and  the  crea- 
ture seems  ready  to  prevail  over  the  good  gifts  of  the 
Creator — almost  ready  to  acknowledge  the  sons  of  the 
Anakims  are  many  and  mighty — but  let  not  faith  fail;  He 
who  aforetime  caused  the  prostration  of  walls,  continues 
all-sufficient  for  the  help  of  those  whose  trust  is  in  Him. 
Might  we  not,  dear  one,  in  unison,  utter 

"  Land  of  rest  for  thee  we  sigh, 
When  will  the  moments  come, 
That  we  shall  lay  our  armor  by 
And  dwell  in  peace  at  home  ?" 

I  much  wanted  to  be  with  you  at  the  recent  gathering, 
although  'tis  generally  a  time  of  exertion  and  exercise  ; 
yet  labor  and  reward  go  hand  in  hand,  and  we  work  and 
eat  together. 

To  M.  S . 


Port  Elizabeth,  1th  mo.  loth,  1837. 
My  Dear  Cousin  : — I  do  not  feel  willing  to  be  long  a 
debtor,  because  the  anticipation  of  a  coming  fold  is  so 
pleasant,  and  the  realization  to  me  so  delightful.  From 
various,  and  not  to  be  controlled,  causes,  our  chief  inter- 
course seems  to  be  epistolary,  though  my  heart  at  times 
covets  the  more  immediate,  full,  and  energetic  commu- 
nion of  speech  ;  but  as  S.  A.  says,  "  we  are  sobered  down 
into  matter-of-fact  character,"  and  know  there  is  a  place 
and  a  part  for  us ;  yet  it  is  comforting  to  believe  that 
although  affection  may  be  a  little  judged  down  and  tem- 
pered, it  is  neither  weakened  nor  lessened,  but  1  trust 
19 


21S  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    (JF 

deepening  and  increasing  in  strength  and  durability.  I 
have  often  observed  those  who  engage  in  business,  even 
in  a  very  small  way,  seldom  were  at  liberty  to  go  where 
commerce  called  them  not.  The  Teacher^  methinks, 
would  need  a  little  living  experience  to  teach  him  that  the 
relish  for  and  enjoyment  of  those  things  were,  in  a  great 
measure,  taken  away.  At  Salem,  found  G.  T.  engaged  in 
family  visiting,  which  had  been  going  on,  it  appeared, 
for  several  days,  much  to  the  satisfaction  of  those  among 
whom,  his  lot  was  cast,  notwithstanding  much  discourage- 
ment in  the  outset  from  motives  o(  hunum  prudence;  fore- 
seeing that  in  such  a  busy  season  as  hay  and  harvest  time, 
there  would  hardly  be  entrance  or  a  place.  But  surely, 
the  call  and  the  word  when  rightly  administered,  goeth 
not  forth  in  vain.  His  services  had,  thus  far,  been  pretty 
much  among  the  farmers,  who  had  many  laborers 
employed,  and  brought  all  in  with  them.  It  afforded  an 
opportunity,  which  probably  would  not  otherwise  have 
offered,  and  I  understand  exhortation  flowed  freely ;  here, 
was  not  only  to  the  Jew,  but  to  the  Gentile  also.  At 
such  exerting  periods  among  husbandmen,  luncheon  is 
prepared  for  the  renewal  of  the  body,  and  did  not  He, 
who  presides  over  the  abundance  of  the  land,  and  gives 
the  ingathering,  direct  that  spiritual  refreshment  too,  be 
extended  ? 

To  L.  S . 


Port  Elizaheth,  Sth  mo.  Uli  1837. 
My  precious  Friend  : — Do  we  not  find  there  is  a  time 
for  all  things?    Of  course  then,  quietness  hath  its  season, 
though  perhaps  in  the  present  instance  it  has  been  main- 
tained too  long.     Well,  let  the  past  suffice,  wherein  there 


ANN    WILLSON.  219 

has  been  erring.  It  may  be  that  our  failure  in  duty  has 
not  been  only  toward  one  another,  but  with  regard  to 
Him,  to  whom  large  tribute  of  loyalty  is  due  ;  yet  may 
we  not  suffer  sadness  to  have  undue  place.  Is  not  loving 
kindness  still  extended  in  the  language  of,  owest  thou 
much,  write  quickly  less.  How  is  it,  my  dear  Lydia?  have 
we,  like  the  wise  watchers  formerly,  hearkened  unto  and 
followed  ano-elic  direction,  until  we  have  become  wit- 
nesses  of  the  immortal  birth,  and  made  known  abroad  the 
things  concerning  it?  Surely  then,  might  we  also  ex- 
perience a  returning,  (a  retirement  into  the  secret  of  our 
own  hearts,)  praising  and  glorifying  divine  power  and 
manifestation.  I  think  thou  canst  not  more  than  myself, 
feel  that  of  ourselves  we  can  do  nothing,  but  with  God 
all  things  are  possible.  Let  us  then  entirely  resign  the 
clay  into  the  hands  of  the  Potter,  that  he  may  fashion  and 
form  it  as  best  pleaseth  Him.  Our  Quarterly  assemblage 
is  near ;.  whether  I  shall  bo  among  the  gathered  vessels, 
yet,  is  uncertain,  and  it  matters  not,  so  that  emptiness  and 
cleanliness  be  preserved  until  called  into  use.  We  are 
looking  with  pleasure  toward  the  close  of  next  week  as 
restoring  to  us  the  absent  ones  of  the  family  band,  and  I 
wish  we  could  for  a  little  while  add  thee  to  our  number. 
Elisha  Dawson  was  with  us  not  long  since  ;  no  change 
seems  effected  by  the  European  journey.  The  same 
patriarchal  bearing,  composure  and  dignit}'  mingled  with 
simplicity  remain  ;  he  was  not  wordy.  It  seemed  a  time 
in  which  the  armor  of  the  ancient  worthy  was  unloosed 
from  his  shoulders,  and  children  called  upon  to  go  into 
the  field. 


220  FAI^TILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


To  J.  J- 


Port  Elizabeth,  Wi  mo.  2d,  1837. 
I  have,  my  precious  sister,  been  oft  with  thee  in  affec- 
tion and  sympathy,  and  was  truly  glad  to  hear  of  thy 
comfortable  progression  in  the  journey  and  work  before 
thee,  through  the  medium  of  our  dear  friends  H.  M.,  and 
A.  R.,  who  have  been  acceptably,  and  I  trust  profitably 
with  us.  But  oh  !  how  my  spirit  longed  for  instrumental 
evidence,  similar  perhaps  to  some  formerly  who  sought  a 
sign,  and  none  it  was  said  should  be  given  save  that  of 
Jonah.  It  was  very  pleasant  to  find  how  thou  wert  faring, 
but  I  quite  want  the  particulars.  I  perceive  thou  hast 
just  touched  the  orbit  of  my  feelings,  when  taking  in  the 
little  meeting:  of  Kingwood,  to  which  I  remember  to  have 
been  when  a  child,  or  rather  a  half  grown  girl ;  but  I  have 
yet  disclosed  naught,  not  even  to  father,  so  greatly  have  I 
sought  the  invisible  fellowship  and  sympathy  ;  beside  a 
deep  and  sorrowful  sense  of  my  own  unsubdued  and  un- 
subjected  will.  OhI  for  that  dominion  over  nature  which 
the  Psalmist  seems  to  have  had  a  sight  of  when  he  called 
upon  the  creation — every  animal  propensity' — yea,  the 
whole  earth,  to  praise,  &c. 

My  mind  has  for  some  time  past  been  strongl}-  attracted 
Eastward  ;  would  that  like  the  wise  ones  of  old  there 
might  be  a  following  the  guidance  of  the  light.  But  ah  I 
I  shrink  altogether  from  the  work,  and  the  feeling  of 
unfitness  and  incapacity  much  inclines  me  to  doubt  the 
requirement — and  yet  1  cannot  turn  from  it — and  neither 
hear,  see,  or  feel  much  else.  Thou  hast  thy  fields  of  ser- 
vice, I  well  know,  and  yet  how  can  I  help  coveting  that 


ANN    WILLSON.  221 

I  might  lean  upon  thee  in  this  fresh  season  of  tribulation, 
of  deep  conflict ! 

Perhaps  when  the  heart  is  more  fully  surrendered,  some 
offering  will  be  caught  as  in  the  thicket.  Where  and 
how  is  our  dear  Sarah  L.  filling  her  allotments? 

The  Canada  friends  were  at  Woodstovvn  Quarter,  and 
exhortation  flowed  freely  and  powerfully.  But  hast  thou 
not  with  me  found  there  was  no  living  upon  the  labor  of 
others'?  The  education  subject  was  revived,  recom- 
mended down  to  the  Monthly  Meetings,  and  in  ours  to-day 
a  committee  appointed  to  keep  alive  the  important  con- 
cern, if  there  could  be  no  furtherance  or  other  good 
derived. 

To  D.  V .  AND  R.  H . 

Port  Elizabeth,  9M  mo.  Uh,  1837. 
My  dear  Cousins  : — ]Much  time  has  elapsed  since  there 
has  been  any  intercourse  between  the  dwellers  at  Green- 
brook  aud  the  Port^  though  thought  has  oft  greeted  you 
affectionately.  I  know  not  who  is  debtor,  nor  does  \\ 
matter,  when  that  love  which  is  constraining  prompts  to 
a  little  utterance.  My  allotment  still  is  to  stand,  as  it 
were,  in  my  sister's  shoes,  whereby  little  leisure  is  found 
for  the  indulgence  of  inclination;  her  health  continues 
poor  and  our  family  large,  so  that  in  the  present  state  of 
affairs,  home  seems  the  place  of  usefulness.  Still  the 
mind  will,  and  does  sometimes  disengage  itself  from  pre- 
sent cares,  to  greet  you  in  desire,  in  sympathy  and  encou- 
ragemant  in  the  path  Canaanward,  that  we  be  not  found 
looking  back  to  the  flesh  pots  of  Egypt,  lingering  in  the 
wilderness,  nor  yet  making  treaties  with  the  old  inhabit- 
ants, which  are  to  be  cast  out.     Though  we  know  this  is 


22z  FaMiltar  letters  of 

not  our  abiding  land,  and  that  there  must  be  a  passing 
away  to  eternal  inheritance,  yet  in  the  removal  of  those 
who  are  supporters  of  the  ark  of  the  testimonies,  our 
hearts  are  sorrowful,  fearing  successors  are  not  coming 
faithfully  up  and  entering  into  the  work.  Were  this  the 
case,  methinks  there  would  as  surely  be  sons  and  daughters 
in  the  church  as  in  the  families  of  mankind.  Poor  J. 
has.  1  understand,  passed  away.  At  the  various  removals 
from  time  to  time  among  you,  my  spirit  has  been  deeply 
touched  with  sympathy  for  the  bereavements,  both  indi- 
vidually and  for  the  precious  cause  sake.  May  the  little 
company  that  are  still  spared,  gird  up  the  loins  of  the  mind 
and  act  valianth^,  that  so  the  standard  of  Truth,  to  which 
there  should  be  a  gathering,  may  continue  to  be  exalted. 
^.'  *  ♦  *  j)o  not  forget  I  am  interested  in  your 
concerns,  and  though  much  separated  of  late,  yet  oft 
silently  feel  you  near.  May  each  so  singly  e3'e  our  own 
pathway,  that  finally  there  may  be  a  centering  together 
in  the  mansions  of  rest.  '■'  *  A. 

To  L.  S . 


Port  Elizabefh,  9th  mo.  22J,  1837. 
Thine,  my  dear  Lydia,  was  greeted  with  that  cordial 
acceptance,  which  is  ever  ready  to  reciprocate  fresh  evi- 
dences of  affection,  and  I  am  sometimes  half  inclined  to 
chide  thee  for  being  so  tortoise-like,  keeping  so  drawn  up 
in  thy  own  shell,  instead  of  more  frequently  peeping  out 
the  head  to  salute  other  fellow  travellers  who  may  also  be 
walking  by  the  way  in  sadness.  Yes,  it  has  been  much 
my  allotment  of  late,  to  be  girt  about  with  sackcloth  and 
^^el  secret  breathings  of  "spare  thy  people,  oh  Almighty 
and  all-sufRcient-One !    and    give   not  thine    heritage  to 


ANN    WILLSON.  223 

reproach."  But  while  we  thus  mourn  for  the  cause,  we 
remember  also  and  lament  our  own  infirmities,  knowing 
that  in  ourselves  is  no  ability  to  direct  the  steppings  aright; 
yet  how  comfortable  the  recollection  that  help  is  laid 
upon  One  who  is  able  to  save  to  the  uttermost  those  whose 
trust  and  dependance  are  upon  Him.  Thus  as  there  is  a 
leaning  alone  upon  Him,  we  shall  with  the  Psalmist  wit- 
ness Him  not  only  to  become  our  salvation,  but  our  song 
also.  Let  us,  then,  not  only  dwell  with  the  cloud,  but 
when  it  be  removed  from  off  the  tabernacle,  and  the  pillar 
of  fire  directeth  or  guideth  onward,  forget  not  that  this 
was  to  be  eyed  with  equal  obedience.  How  delightful  it 
would  be  to  gather  you  under  our  roof.  I  hope  it  may 
be  so,  and  at  a  time  too  when  I  may  rest  upon  my  oars,  at 
least  in  mind,  and  enjoy  your  company.  Perhaps  thou 
mayest  have  had  some  hint  of  the  present  state  of  things 
from  cousin  E.  P.  ;  though  to  her,  I  have  said  very  little, 
('twas  partly  her  own  secret  sense  of  the  matter,)  or 
indeed  to  any  one,  till  the  burden  increasing,  it  seemed 
weightier  than  I  alone  could  bear.  Indeed,  much  as  we 
cling  to  being,  had  the  natural  existence  been  called  for 
I  have  thought  I  could  more  willingly  have  yielded  :  but 
shall  the  poor  instrument  say  to  Him,  who  made  it,  what 
doest  thou  ?  The  things  that  were  written  aforetime,  were 
written  for  our  instruction,  yea,  and  consolation  too,  and 
divested  as  I  feel  of  aught  that  can  be  termed  good,  'tis 
comforting  to  remember  that  it  was  the  empty  vessels 
that  were  replenished.  "Let  not  your  hearts  be  troubled," 
ye  believe  in  Divine  Power — believe  also  in  the  renew- 
ings  of  the  spirit  of  Truth,  its  all-sufficiency  and  efficacy 
in  your  own  minds.  Oh  I  dare  we  hope  that  we  are  of 
the   number  of  the   disciples,  by   whom  these   excellent 


224^  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

legacies  of  promise  were  and  are  to  be  inherited,  from 
Him  whose  words  are  yea  and  amen  forever  ? 
Have  I  already  told  thee  that  our  cousin  J.  Jacobs 
has  thus  early  exchanged  the  earthly  for  the  heavenly 
house — expressed  her  resignation  and  peacefulness,  with 
the  comfortable  assurance  of  inhabiting  the  mansions  of 
rest.  But  we,  my  precious  friend,  are  still  dwellers  in 
the  world,  still  occupy  the  frail  tabernacle,  and  it  is  meet 
that  we  should  care  for  the  tent  ;  it  is  our  duty  to  pre- 
serve the  earthen  vessel  whole  and  clean,  that  so  the  new 
wine  of  the  kingdom  may  flow  into  it.  He  who  made  ua, 
knoweth  our  infirmities,  and  if  the  right  balance  but  be 
maintained,  the  Truth  be  witnessed  to  have  dominion  and 
reign  over  all,  it  is  all  I  covet.      *         '^         *         * 

WHILE   FROM    HOME    ON   A    RELIGIOUS    VISIT. 

Gree?i  Brook,  lOth  mo.  Mth,  1837. 
Beloved  ones,  at  home  : — You  will,  doubtless,  be 
glad  to  hear  that  we  arrived  in  safety  about  five  yesterday, 
and  were  cordially  received  by  our  kindred.  Attendtd 
meeting  to-day,  which  though  very  small,  was  evidently 
owned  by  the  beamings  of  the  heavenly  countenance. 
Over  my  own  sky,  at  times,  comes  the  haze  of  discourage- 
ment, with  now  and  then  a  cheering  glimpse  of  '-fear  not.^^ 
Much  is  yet  behind  the  curtain,  and  I  almost  shrink  from 
its  developement,  but  what  says  the  good  book?  ''  he  that 
putteth  his  hand  to  the  plough  and  looketh  back  is  not," 
&c.  I  am  now  going  to  retrograde  to  the  beginning,  and 
tell  you  it  was  a  comfortable  though  wakeful  night,  before 
leaving  home.  The  moonligiit  was  more  beautiful  than 
usual.  I  loved  you  all  more  dearly,  and  it  was  not  so 
much  for  the  snujjhs,  as  to  give  you  each  a  k'ss,  that  I 


ANN    WILLSON.  225 

returned  to  your  room,  after  I  had  gone  to  my  own  ; 
there  was  a  serenity  and  sweetness  of  feeling  which 
seemed  of  unearthly  cast,  and  I  remembered  how  it  was 
formerly.  The  disciples  witnessed  scenes  of  suffering;  yea 
even  the  crucifixion,  and  were  left  desolate  and  destitute  ; 
but  thus  lonely  and  destitute,  they  turned  not  to  earthly 
succor.  Having  no  outward  trust,  they  were  gathered 
within,  and  when  the  doors  were  shut,  the  Master  pre- 
sented himself,  breathing  the  holy  heavenly  effusions  of 
love,  with  the  language,  "  Peace  be  unto  you,"  thus  caus- 
ing them  to  rejoice  in  his  resurrection.  And  it  was,  I 
trust,  a  little  measure  of  this  peace  that  consoled  my  heart 
when  turning  from  you  and  facing  the  important  service 
before  me.  Ah  !  I  begin  to  comprehend  the  expression 
of  "new  wine  must  be  put  into  new  bottles."  Our  road 
was  pleasant;  the  varied  tints  of  autumnal  foliage  were 
profusely  spread  around  us.  Reached  B.  D.'s  ere  sunset, 
and  partook  of  their  hospitality.  In  the  morning  rode  to 
Vincent  Town  meeting;  a  small  assemblage,  but  me- 
thought  overshadowed  by  the  heavenly  wing.  Ah  I  this 
would  gather  and  preserve  us,  if  we  were  sufficiently  wil- 
ling to  nestle  close  beneath  its  safe  shelter.  To  our  dear 
sister  A.  I  would  just  whisper,  that  I  was  permitted  to 
perceive  that  though  petitions  may  be  in  the  heart,  and 
fervent  desires  breathed  for  the  increasing  reception  of 
mediatorial  efficacy,  which  would  unite  into  the  oneness, 
and  cause  the  experience  that  we  are  not  of  the  world, 
even  as  He  is  not  of  it,  yet  until  the  minds  of  the  congre- 
gated are  baptised  into  a  feeling  wherein  there  can  be  a 
mingling  together  in  intercession,  utterance  is  perhaps 
wisely  witheld.  ^  *  >i=  *  After  meeting,  met  with 
an  intelligent  and  agreeable  youth,  lately  returned    from 


526 


FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


College,  who  is  now  fitting  himself  for  a  candidate  of  the 
law  (not  the  gospel.)  However  he  is  prepossesrjing,  and  may 
in  time  lay  aside  Saul's  armor,  and  girding  on  the  sling, 
seek  smooth  stones  from  the  brook  of  Life.    ^  *  *  * 

To  J.  J . 


lOih  mo.  2\st,  1838. 

My  dear.  Friend: — Very  precious  have  been  the  recol- 
lections of  thee  during  this  protracted  quietude,  and  de- 
sires have  arisen  that  we  might  more  and  more  endeavor 
to  maintain  the  warfare  and  keep  the  faith:  hence  as  said 
the  Apostle  a  crown  awaiteth — a  crown  of  life,  a  treasure 
incorruptible.  Never  ceasing  beatitude  is  surely  worth  a 
struggle ;  and  how  consoling  to  believe  we  have  a  com- 
passionate IMediator,  who  knowing  the  fle'sh  is  weak, 
pitieth  it :  the  language  of  my  ov/n  mind  at  the  present 
season  is,  "  watch  ye  here,  while  I  go  yonder  and  pray  5" 
and  for  what  is  this  intercession  ?  That  nature  may  be  re- 
signed— such  resignation  attained  as  will  cause  the  secret 
breathings  to  be,  "if  this  cup  may  not  pass  unless  I  drink 
it,  thy  will  be  done." 

What  has  become  of  Baltimore,  and  hast  thou  naught  to 
do  in  East  Jersey?  When  the  famine  was  sore  in  the  land, 
what  said  the  Patriarch  ?  did  he  not  yield  up  the  nearest 
and  dearest  ?  "take  now  your  brother  arise  and  go,  that  so  a 
little  food  may  be  obtained,  and  we  live  and  not  die." 

The  company  and  labors  of  our  precious  friends  M.  and 
S.  were  very  grateful  ;  owing  to  the  state  of  our  family  I 
had  much  less  of  their  society  than  I  otherwise  should, 
and  did  not  get  to  Cape  May  whither  my  heart  was  bend- 
ing ;  surely  there  is  a  right  time  for  all  right  things. 
Dear  Sarah,  how  much  felt   I  for  her,  not  feared.     Some 


ANN    WILLSON.  227 

of  US  seem  as  if  we  never  could  become  weaned  children  5 
coveting  still  to  be  fed  on  milk  ;  well,  we  may  remember 
that  the  weak  He  leads  gently,  and  carries  the  lambs  in  His 
bosom.  Ah  !  I  well  know  that  we  shrink  from  being  par- 
takers in  the  Master's  baptism,  though  willing  to  sit  as  on 
the  right  and  left  in  the  kingdom.  Let  us,  beloved  one, 
covet  each  other's  increase  both  in  stature  and  strength. 
I  feel  deep  interest  in  the  travellers,  and  have  hoped  to 
hear  of  their  gettings  along. 

Even  though  thine  be  the  situation  of  one  formerly,  a 
^'spring  shut  up  and  a  fountain  sealed," yet^let  it  not  wholly 
excuse  the  pen,  the  little  services  of  which  may  some- 
times be  as  a  cup  of  water,  cheering  and  refreshing  a  dis- 
ciple. Perhaps  abounding  is  not  best :  we  may  remem- 
ber they  had  in  earlier  times  to  descend  from  the  mount, 
again  to  encounter  the  frailties  of  the  flesh.  Thou  art  not 
alone  dear,  but  hast  a  very  feeble  sister,  who  from  too 
much  yielding  to  the  natural  part,  feels  often  encompassed 
with  discouragement.  Is  it  not  as  needful  now  as  afore- 
time, that  the  followers  of  Christ  wash  one  another's  feet, 
that  so  they  may  be  refreshed,  strengthened,  and  prepared 
for  future  steppings  ?     Will  Anna's  love  be  acceptable  ? 

To  J.  J . 

Port  Elizabeth,  1st  mo.  8th,  1838. 
My  trecious  Friend: — How  much  of  late  my  thoughts 
are  with  thee — or  rather,  are  seeking  for  thee,  and  for 
some  expression  or  evidence  of  thy  present  allotment. 
Art  thou  in  bonds,  my  sister,  or  stretching  forth  the  hand 
to  be  girded  upon  by  truth's  service — desiring  that  to  live 
may  be  Christ ;  but,  ah  !  oft  feeling  as  if  to  die  would  be 
gain.    Do  I  not  know   what  I  say  ?     The  creature  must 


228  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

endure  the  conflict;  and  how  natural  to  utter,  ^Met  the 
cup  pass  from  me;"  yet  how  consoling  the  remembrance 
oi\  "  fear  not,  for  I  have  overcome  the  world." 

I  have  many  times,  since  my  return,  regretted  follow- 
ing even  good  counsel,  with  regard  to  the  long  walk  to 
Green  street,  because  if  it  had  increased  weariness  of 
body,  it  would  methinks,  have  produced  rest  of  mind.  I 
was  much  interested  in  the  sleeping  season  a  few  nights 
since  ;  thought  I  received  a  box  of  evergreens  from  thee; 
they  were  not  only  verdantly  beautiful,  but  in  addition 
to  their  green  glories,  the  tops  of  some  of  the  shrubs  were 
crowned  with  purple  and  blue  blossoms — the  whole  being 
of  such  lively,  yea  living  hues,  as  to  carry  cheeriness 
and  encouragement  to  the  very  spirits. 

To  L.  S . 


Port  Elizabeth,  2d  mo.  26th,  1838. 
To  thee,  my  beloved  Lydia,  I  will  acknowledge,  that 
had  I  yielded  to  inclination  and  affection,  yea  to  the 
greeting  upon  the  heart,  thou  wouldst,  some  time  since, 
have  heard  the  little  items  concerning  us;  but  looking 
continually  toward  a  season  of  more  leisure  and  conveni- 
ence, which  came  not,  the  little  offering  was  altogether 
deferred  ;  but  the  coming  of  thine  has  quickened  feeling, 
stirring  up  to  increased  diligence  in  every  good  word  and 
work.  I  thought,  ere  I  reached  that  part  of  thy  epistle, 
thou  should  have  had  some  share  in  the  late  mission  ;  but, 
as  said  Eli  to  Samuel,  lie  down  again  in  the  same  place, 
that  is  in  an  humble,  listening  and  resigned  state,  and 
when  there  is  a  renewed  call,  answer  and  yield  obedi- 
ence. So  mayest  thou  become  a  messenger  and  counsel- 
lor unto  Israel.     I  feel  just  now,  that  the  time  is  past  for 


ANN    WILLSON.  229 

much  speaking  of  the  late  journey  ;  there  remains  only 
ability  to  set  up  the  Ebenezer,  with  the  acknowledgment, 
that  help  was  afforded.  I  often  wonder  that  such  little 
ones  should  be  sent  on  such  important  errands,  but  who 
can  fathom  the  ways  of  the  Most  High,  or  say  what  doest 
thou?  Be  it  then  our  business  to  obey  our  calling,  and 
fulfil  our  small  allotments,  that  we,  too,  may  hear  the 
approving  language  of  good  and  faithful  (not  great  or 
dignified,)  but  good  and  faithful  servant,  "  enter  thou  into 
the  joy,"  &c.  Were  we  personally  together  at  the  Port, 
I  should  doubtless  have  a  renewal  of  memory,  and  could 
speak  of  many  things  relative  to  the  East  and  its  dwellers  ; 
had  I  been  permitted  to  choose  for  myself,  I  should  cer- 
tainly have  avoided  that  part  of  the  vineyard,  and  far 
preferred  my  lot  being  cast  among  strangers,  in  that 
capacity ;  but  it  ended  satisfactorily,  and  I  feel  increased 
attachment  for  them.  Indeed,  I  think,  there  was  wit- 
nessed something  like  being  bound  together  in  the  bundle 
of  love.  I  have  unity  with  your  removal  to  Wilmington, 
though  I  am  not  likely  to  get  there  soon,  owing  to 
sister's  weak  state  of  health.  T  seldom  feel  a  libert}^  to 
go  from  home,  except  by  constraint.  Let  us  both  be 
instant  in  season — attentive  to  the  little  movements  or 
drawings  of  thought  and  feeling  towards  each  other  ;  so 
should  we,  I  believe,  find,  as  said  Solomon,  there  is  a  time 
— yea,  a  right  time — for  all  right  things.  I  have  much 
need  to  profit  by  this  remark  myself,  but  may  the  time 
past,  wherein  we  have  loitered,  suffice  ;  for  verily  I 
believe  the  penny  of  reward  is  for  every  laborer.    *     * 


20 


230                                    FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 
To  J.    J . 

iWimo.  Uh,  18 38. 
Thine,  precious  one,  came  duly  and  cheerfully ;  and 
father  was  exceedingly  gratified  with  his.  If  the  counte- 
nance acteth  like  iron,  sharpening  iron,  so  surely  does  this 
kind  of  intercourse.  We  are  now  in  the  midst  of  much 
business,  for  this  is  the  season  of  preparing  and  putting 
away  our  winter  stores,  so  that  great  and  small,  weak 
and  strong,  are  all  required  to  aid  and  forward  the  work ; 
but  I  feel  so  much  disposed  to  speak  a  few  words  that  I 
have  retreated  from  my  post  a  short  time,  that  I  might 
tell  thee  the  present  state  of  things.  Perceiving  a  favora- 
ble opportunity  the  next  day  after  our  return  home,  I 
disclosed  to  father  the  burden  of  the  mind.  Oh  !  the 
inestimable  privilege  of  leaning  upon  a  parental  bosom. 
There  was  great  freedom,  and  much  tenderness;  indeed 
it  was  a  heart  relieving  time  to  me.  After  viewing  it  in 
all  its  bearings,  his  advice  was  to  defer ;  and  I  now  seem 
like  a  little  bark  which,  partially  unloading,  floats  more 
lightly  upon  life's  unstable  element,  and  can  acknowledge, 
like  one  of  old,  who  doubtless  tested  things  similarly,  by 
the  evidence  of  his  own  feelings,  that  the  counsel  is 
good  ;  and  have  since  deciding  the  matter  been  pretty 
easy,  though  not  forgetful  of  the  subject,  and  awoke  the- 
other  morning  with  the  recollection  of  the  patriarch  so 
fresh  and  lively  that  I  mentally  mingled  in  the  petition, 
*'  if  thou  wilt  be  with  me  in  the  way  that  I  shall  go, 
give  bread  to  eat  and  raiment  to  put  on,  so  that  I  come  to 
my  Father's  house  in  peace,  then  shalt  thou  be  my  God." 

A.  W. 


ANN    WILLSON.  231 


To   L.  S- 


Port  Elizabeth,  12th  mo.  3lst,  1838. 

My  dear.  L. — I  have  often  observed  that  poor  neigh- 
bors are  very  cordial  in  their  greetings,  and  if  sympathy 
and  kindly  feeling  be  all  there  is  to  offer,  it  like  the 
widow's  small  pittance,  will  methinks  find  acceptance. 
Art  thou  in  the  situation  of  one  formerly,  who,  when  the 
messenger  was  sent  to  inquire — "  is  it  well  with  thee,  is 
it  well  with  the  child,"  revealed  naught,  but  passed  the  ser- 
vant and  clave  unto  the  alone  restoring  power.  Ah  !  full 
well  do  I  know  there  are  seasons  in  which  sitting  alone 
and  keeping  silence  best  accords  with  our  state  ;  but  when 
renewal  of  life  is  experienced,  may  there  not  only  be 
bowedness  of  soul  and  grateful  acknowledgment,  but  a 
going  forth  bearing  this  birth  as  it  were  in  the  arms.  Be- 
hold the  language  still  is,  "take  up  thy  son." 

We,  my  beloved  friend,  both  feel  our  littleness,  and  at 
times  are  almost  ready  to  give  out,  or  at  least  so  it  is  with 
myself;  but  I  comfortingly  remember  it  was  not  much 
nor  frequent  expression  that  designated  the  loved  disciple, 
but  a  leaning  upon  the  Master's  bosom.  Let  us  then  seek 
this  union,  hoping  also  to  witness  a  blessed  repose. 

The  scions  of  our  tribe  are  fast  rising  upward,  and  the 
breathings  of  Anna's  heart  are,  that  the  growth  of  grace 
may  keep  pace  with  stature,  that  so  when  my  day  is  clos- 
ing, language  similar  to  that  of  good  old  Simeon  may  be 
adopted — now  let  me  depart,  satisfied  and  peaceful,  be- 
cause of  the  prospect  and  comfortable  hope  of  salvation. 
But  ah  I  beloved  friend,  there  is  an  enemy  that  continues 
to  sow  tares  while  we  are  lethargic  or  too  insensible  to  its 
approaches. 

Weeds  will  spring  up  within  the  garden  enclosed,  not- 


232  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

withstanding  all  our  care,  and  where  there  is  no  hedge 
and  no  labor  extended,  not  only  will  these  become  abund- 
ant, overpowering  the  plants  of  grace  and  goodness,  but 
the  wild  beasts  of  the  forest,  the  rough,  harsh  and  destoy- 
ing  propensities  of  the  animal  nature  will  also  venture 
there.  Though  often  a  little  discouraged  with  my  feeble 
efforts  to  enlarge  and  rightly  direct  the  infant  mind,  even 
from  the  window  shelf  am  I  instructed  in  perceiving  the 
wrong  bias  of  a  Geranium,  and  how  it  stiffens  and  strength- 
ens in  its  own  way,  except  the  culturer's  care  be  early 
extended.  We  do  not  send  our  children  to  school  this 
year  because  of  none  suitable,  and  I  find  it  difhcult  to  at- 
tend to  them  steadily,  therefore  their  progress  is  slow,  yet 
if  they  learn  but  little,  they  are  out  of  the  way  of  much 
evil. 

Education  is  to  me  an  interesting,  yea,  an  animating 
theme  ;  and  I  would  that  as  knowledge  enters  and  expands 
the  mind,  it  may  ever  continue  to  be  the  pure  and  limpid 
stream,  which  not  only  invigorates,  but  also  sanctifies, 
leaving  no  taint  nor  pollution  in  its  course. 

Oh  !  for  wisdom  to  go  in  and  out  before  those  committed 
to  our  care,  that  errors  be  not  chargeable  to  our  example 
and  precept.         *         *         jk         >{c 

To  M.  S . 


Port  EUzahdh,  3d  mo.  16fh,  1839. 
Though  the  first  gush  was  o'er,  yet  the  coming  of  thine, 
my  dear  cousin,  stirred  nature  afresh,  and  renewedly 
aroused  all  the  capabilities  of  feeling  and  affection. 
Should  we  mourn  that  a  loved  one  has  laid  aside  the  robe  of 
mortality,  and  is  centered  in  bliss  ;  does  not  her  exit*  seem 

*  The  death  of  her  friend,  S.  A.  K. 


ANN    WILLSON.  233 

like  the  knell  of  our  own  ?  is  not  the  language  "  Be  ye  also 
ready?"  But  while  musing  sorrowfully  on  these  things, 
how  comfortingly  revives  the  counsel,  "Let  not  your 
hearts  be  troubled — in  the  Father's  house  are  many  man- 
sions ]"  and  as  there  is  an  introversion  of  mind,  and  atten- 
tion to  internal  teachings,  similar  to  the  desire  of  the  di.^y- 
ciples,  to  follow  their  Leader  in  his  goings  and  ascent, 
doubtless  we  too  should  receive  the  promise  that  a  place 
would  be  prepared, — "  The  chamber  where  the  good  man 
meets  his  fate,  is  privileged  beyond  the  common  walks  of 
life,  quite  in  the  verge  of  Heaven."  It  was  pleasant  to 
find  that  3^ou  did  not  continue  as  it  were  about  the  sepul- 
chre, but  acted  in  accordance  with  the  brighter  view, 
that  the  spirit  had  risen  before  you,  to  explore  and  enjoy 
the  fields  of  li2:ht  and  of  love. 


To  J.  J . 

Fifth  day  afternoon,  1839. 

My  precious  Sister  : — Thy  folio  was  gratefully  re- 
ceived ;  it  speaks  of  life  and  of  labor.  I  have  deferred 
replying  in  order  to  weigh  the  matter,  and  after  deliberate 
consideration,  believe  my  place  is  a  quiet  abiding,  because 
clouds  rest  upon  the  tabernacle.  I  sometimes  look  toward 
Fishing  Creek,  and  other  places  where  the  light  once 
shone,  but  again  am  ready  to  think  that  my  services  are 
at  an  end,  and  the  little  bark  wrecked.  I  would  gladly 
learn  entire  submission,  and  strive  for  contentment  even 
in  this  forlorn  situation ;  but  human  nature,  how  it  seeks 
to  escape  suffering.  I  have  of  late  often  had  to  remember 
the  conflict  even  of  the  Master,  before  the  utterance  of 
''  not  my  will  but  thine  be  done." 

I  have  good  unity  with  thy  prospect.     He  whose  is  the 
-20 


234f  FAMILIAR,    LETTERS    OF 

vineyard^  prepareth  and  sendeth  whom  and  when  he  will; 
if  we  must  earn  our  own  livelihood,  'twould  greatly  lessen 
and  lighten  the  burden,  to  work  in  the  same  field,  but  my 
dear  we  have  abundant  evidence  that  we  know  not  what 
is  be^t  for  ourselves,  and  the  secret  breathings  of  the  mind 
are,  leave  us  not  to  the  creaturely  will  "  merciful  Provi- 
dence." 

The  present  state  is  that  of  seeing  nothing,  knowing 
nothing,  but  being  in  want  of  all  things  ;  and  I  have  had 
brought  instructively  to  view  the  situation  of  the  patriarch 
who  wrestled  through  a  long  night  season,  and  ceased 
not,  even  when  the  cry  was  "  let  me  go  for  the  day 
breaketh  ;''  loosening  not  his  hold,  remitting  not  in  exer- 
tion till  he  prevailed  and  obtained  the  blessing.  Oh  I  for 
this  perseverance,  this  unabating  diligence. 

I  marvel  not  that  the  disciples  though  they  had  wit- 
nessed miracles — been  fed  when  there  seemed  no  provi- 
sion— protected  and  saved  from  the  apparently  over- 
whelming waves  and  beating  tempest,  yet  were  again  of 
doubtful  mind. 

May  T  not,  beloved  one,  profit  by  thy  movements;  me- 
thinks  I  shall  oft  secretly  be  with  thee,  yea,  experience 
something  like  invisible  companionship,  and  wilt  thou  not 
as  way  opens  and  freedom  is  felt,  communicate  of  thy 
doings  and  feelings  ;  it  is  a  precious  privilege  to  hold  two- 
fold intercourse,  to  commune  spiritually  and  tempo- 
rally. Tell  me,  hast  thou  ever  known  the  want  of  confi- 
dence in  respect  to  every  presentation,  every  feeling,  act, 
and  requirement,  insomuch  that  true  judgment  can 
scarcely  be  attained  ?  But  why  should  I  trouble  thee  with 
my  difficulties?  rather  let  me  encourage  thee  to  the  faith- 
ful performance  of  duty,  not  doubting  that  He  that  putteth 


ANN    WILLSON.  235 

forth  will  go  with  and  'preserve  thee ;  recollecting  a 
prominent  feature  in  the  general  epistle,  that  "  good  is  the 
Lord,  and  greatly  to  be  praised  is  our  God." 

A.  W. 

SOON  AFTER  THE  DEATH  OF  HER  BKOTHER-IN  LAW. 

To  J.  J . 

Third  day  eve,  10th  mo.  18o9. 
My  DEAR.  J. — Cousin  Eliza  P.  compares  herself  to  one 
going  about  with  a  basket  on  her  arm,  dealing  out  scraps 
and  bits  to  the  needy.  I  at  the  present  season  am  in  a 
much  less  enviable  state — an  alms-asker  instead  of  giver. 
It  is  very  common  to  enquire,  what  brought  to  this 
situation  of  want.  Indolence  or  inattention  to  business  is 
full  oft  the  occasion.  And  it  may  be  the  case  in  this 
instance,  for  a  little  secret  pointing,  like  the  raising  of  a 
finger,  was  some  time  since  seen;  but  wailing  for  some- 
thing more,  even  the  motion  of  the  whole  hand,  gradu- 
ally the  sight  and  sense  almost  wholly  faded,  till  now 
there  is  no  ability  for  any  movement,  and  though  'tis 
better  to  give  than  to  receive,  yet  if  there  be  humility 
with  poverty,  a  sense  of  omissions,  and  a  desire  to  be 
more  obedient  and  more  diligent  in  future,  may  not  a 
crumb  be  properl}'  handed?  JNIy  mind  has  been  much 
with  thee,  though  not  accompanied  with  any  capability 
for  utterance.  I  seem  to  have  stood,  as  in  my  sleeping 
thoughts,  by  the  sea  side  musing,  fearing  to  put  a  foot 
upon  the  floating  bridge,  because  I  am  weak.  Now,  my 
precious  sister,  are  we  not  to  be  one  another's  helpers, 
each  other's  strength  1  and  yet  T  would  not  improperly 
call  thy  attention  even  to  myself,  only  hope  that  when  a 
little  inclined  toward  us,  thou  would  not  put  the  feeling 
bv.     The   usual   arrangements  and  enga2;ements  in  cases 


236  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

like  ours,  have  been  very  engrossing  ;  and  dear  father  is 
much  more  concerned  for  our  comfort  and  sooth  ins:  than 
his  own  ease  and  rest.  The  departed  was  as  his  staff,  and 
deprived  so  unexpectedly  of  that  on  which  he  leaned,  the 
steps  must  necessarily  be  more  feeble  ;  and  yet  there  is  a 
patriarchal  dignity,  a  resignedness  and  meek  submission, 
that  is  not  only  touching  but  teaching ;  our  beloved 
mother  still  presides  over  her  household  with  her 
wonted  energy  and  affectionate  attention,  anticipating,  as 
it  were,  each  individual  wish. 

We  know,  dear,  that  we  are  still  rich  in  affection,  and 
desire  that  our  hearts  may  be  lifted  up  in  grateful 
acknowledgment,  that  we  may  still  number  our  blessings. 
But  oh  I  the  waste  place,  the  void  that  is  continually  and 
every  where  felt.  A.   W. 

To  L.  S . 


First  day  mornings  lOt/i^  mo.  1839. 
What  know  we,  beloved  friend,  of  a  Sabbath  feel- 
ing! How  careful  we  generally  are  to  purify,  regulate 
and  neatly  arrange  our  dwellings,  so  that  all  about  us 
may  be  in  First  day  garb !  Is  the  work  sinrituaUy 
thus  cared  for — everj^  duty  attended  to — the  house  of 
the  heart  set  in  order,  and  we  prepared  to  rest,  because 
the  labor  is  completed — to  be  gathered  with  his  large 
family  into  the  parental  presence!  Alas!  how  many 
of  us  feel  (as  the  apostle  acknowledged)  confusion  of 
face  on  account  of  short-comings,  falling  short  of  the 
perfection  and  glory  designed.  We  have  a  fresh  beset- 
ment — have  to  struggle  with  sorrow.  Its  billows  are 
strong  and  powerful,  and  sometimes  threaten  to  over- 
whelm ;  but  He  who  aforetime  spoke  the  tossing  wave 


ANN    WILLSON.  237 

into  calmness,  as  the  poor  heart-wrecked  mariner's  eye 
is  turned  toward  Him  with  the  secret  breathing  of 
"  Master,  carest  thou  not  that  we  perish  V  will  surely 
arise  and  rebuke  the  winds  of  tempestuous  feeling. 
Sister  strives  to  be  resigned,  yet  is  greatly  bowed 
under  the  late  bereavement.  Indeed,  how  can  it  be 
otherwise,  when  w^e  consider  what  she  has  lost  1  As  a 
friend  observed,  "  how  often  we  see  the  ripest  fruits 
picked  first."  Ah!  that  is  one  consolation,  that  a 
purified  spirit  has  been  restored  to  its  mansion  of  bliss  ; 
and  though  we  cannot  but  mourn,  yet  there  are  manj^ 
comforting  reflections,  and  almost  continually  some  one 
is  recounting  the  good  deeds  and  the  kindnesses,  like 
to  those  who  shewed  the  garments  made  by  Dorcas — 
and  by  the  same  power,  I  doubt  not,  he  has  been  raised 
and  presented  alive  to  the  saints.  Therefore  our  tears 
are  for  ourselves.  Perhaps  never  more  unlooked  for 
has  a  sunny  scene  been  changed.  In  Autumn  we 
expect  the  leaf  to  drop,  for  the  withering  hand  of  time 
is  upon  the  tree  ;  but  that  the  freshest  and  most  ver- 
dant spring  foliage  should  thus  suddenly  witness 
blight,  is  cause  of  deep  conflict  to  poor  frail  nature. 

To    HER    COUSINS    S . 


Port  Elizabeth,  lOtk  mo.  loth,  1839. 
Beloveds  : — I  have  not  taken  the  pen  with  an  episto- 
lary feeling,  but  only  to  talk  a  litile  to  you.  The  cham- 
bers of  our  hearts  are  sorrowful,  and  you  will  not  won- 
der that  it  is  so,  for  by  a  similar  bereavement  you  are 
prepared  also  to  mourn  and  to  weep.  But  your  and 
our  tears,  are  they  not  all  for  ourselves]  for  surely  the 


238 


FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


"sweetest,  brightest,  and  the  best,  have  earliest  sought 
the  land  of  rest."  Many  a  tribute  to  departed  worth 
has  been  uttered  by  our  villagers,  and  never  perhaps 
in  this  neighborhood  have  there  been  more  evidences  of 
dwelling  in  the  affections  of  the  community.  A  wise 
one  formerly  declared  "a  good  name  to  be  better  than 
precious  ointment  j"  to  me,  the  observations  of  regard, 
respect  and  attachment,  seem  like  bringing  spices  to 
embalm  the  body.  Some  years  ago,  there  was  a  mo- 
tion to  take  him  into  the  political  world  j  it  was  con- 
trary to  the  family  feeling,  neither  did  he  himself 
desire  it.  The  wave  rolled  harmlessly  on,  but  now  we 
understand  another  was  at  hand,  and  it  was  intended  to 
carry  the  point  ;  and  pure  and  single  hearted  as  he  was, 
who  can  tell  where  the  policy  of  man  would  have  led  1 
There  are  many  such  considerations,  and  we  strive  to 
be  resigned,  not  only  from  these  creaturely  reasonings, 
but  because  we  know  the  counselings  of  Christian  duty 
are,  "not  my  will,  but  thine  be  done."  Yet  oh  !  the 
inward  desolation — the  waste  places  ;  what  will  fill  the 
void  1 — holy,  heavenly  love.  He  who  hath  pledged 
himself  to  be  a  husband,  a  father,  and  a  brother  ;  his 
promises  are  yea  and  amen  for  ever.  Would  then  that 
our  efforts  may  centre  in  endeavors  to  fit  ourselves  for 
such  excellent  and  glorious  affinity. 

With  you  and  us  there  were  some  points  of  differ- 
ence 5  you  were  expecting  what  came  ;  ours  was  a  blast 
from  the  mountains,  and  it  laid  low  the  strongest 
and  greenest  branch.  But  does  not  a  storm  tend  to 
drive  home  the  flock]  If  in  the  present  instance  it 
have  such  an  effect,  it  may  indeed  prove  a  blessing, 
though  it  is  difficult  to  view  so  afliictive  an  event  in  the 


ANN    WILLSON.  231) 

proper  light.      A  few  lines  written  by  S.  A.  came  very 
sweetly  to  remembrance, 

"  Comfort,  mourner,  why  thy  sigh  ? 
^    Heaven  in  mercy  sends  us  sorrow  ; 
Patience,  mourner,  heaven  is  nigh, 
Brighter  prospects  greet  to-morrow." 

To   R.  H . 


Port  Elizaheth,  lOt/i  mo.  16tk,  1839. 
My  precious  Cousin  : — I  cannot  for  a  moment  sup- 
pose that  He  whose  compassions  fail  not  toward  all  the 
workmanship  of  his  own  holy  hands,  willingly  afflict- 
eth  any,  but  as  a  wise  parent  whose  eye  scanneth  not 
only  the  present  but  the  future,  that  so  the  termination 
may  effect  peace  and  joy.  If  this  be  the  happy  result 
to  dear  cousin  J.  H.'s  family  and  our  own,  if  trials  work 
out  a  more  exceeding  and  eternal  weight  of  glory,  we 
shall  indeed  have  cause  to  give  thanks  for  all,  but  most 
for  the  severe.  Feeling  truly  has  no  fellow  ;  but  bowed 
under  a  like  bereavement,  we  can  better  understand 
than  express  the  depths  of  sorrow.  But  oh  !  amid  the 
tossings  of  the  poor  tried  mind,  and  its  secret  appeal 
of  "  carest  thou  not  that  we  perish,"  hath  not  He,  in 
whom  is  all  power,  arisen  and  rebuked  both  wind  and 
wave,  causing  such  calming,  quieting  influence  as 
naught  else  could  produce  1  And  while  each  habitation 
does  and  must  feel  a  great  void  and  vacancy,  yet  I  trust 
the  inmates  of  both  rest  in  the  consoling  belief, 
that  though  "  dust  has  been  consigned  lo  its  narrow 
house  beneath,  the  soul  hath  ascended  to  its  place  on 
high."  I  have  not  heard  the  particulars  of  our  dear 
cousin  Phebe's  close.     Were  wc  nearer,  there  v/ould. 


240  TAMILIAR    LETTERS   OF 

be,  I  think,  a  mournful  kind  of  satisfaction  in  convers- 
ing of  the  loved  departed  ones.  Precious  cousin  J.,  how 
much  I  have  thought  of  her  and  the  weight  of  care 
that  must  now  devolve  on  her  ;  not  labor  of  the  hands 
only,  but  to  comfort  and  help  bear  up  the  spirit  of  the 
surviving  parent,  smoothing  life's  decline,  exampling 
and  counseling  the  younger  branches  of  the  family,  and 
exercising  the  faculties,  the  noble  gifts  of  the  Creator, 
not  only  at  home  but  in  society.  Ah  !  I  well  ren.ember 
how  closely  I  was  drawn  toward  her  when  we  were  last 
together,  (something  more  than  natural  endearment,) 
with  the  belief  she  was  designed  for  a  polished  stone  in 
the  heavenly  palace. 

To  J.  J . 

First-day  afternoon. 
My  deau  J. — Though  the  season  of  quietness  has 
been  long,  yet  during  it,  methinks,  there  has  been  a 
hidden  fellowship,  a  secret  and  sweet  communion,  and 
at  times  perhaps  a  little  drinking  together  of  Shiloh's 
refreshing  streams,  though  with  me  the  waters  are 
usually  very  low,  scarcely  rising  to  the  ankles.  I  have 
much  wished  to  know  thy  present  faring,  whether  the 
frail  tenement  is  gaining  a  little  strength,  or  is  still 
bow^ed  under  exercise,  like  the  cart  beneath  sheaves. 
After  yielding  to  a  little  service  this  morning,  my  mind 
was  almost  immediately  drawn  into  feeling  with  thee, 
my  beloved  sister,  and  I  seemed  somew^iat  in  the  situa- 
tion of  one  formerly,  who  was  directed  to  go  where  the 
colt  w^as  tied,  with  the  message  "loose  him  and  let  him 
go,  for  the  Master  hath  need  of  him."  Yea,  and  as 
there  is  submission  to  the  divine  requirement,  I  believe 


ANN    WILLSON.  241 

he  will  be  found  as  then  sitting  thereon,  with  a  sound 
of  rejoicing  and  praise,  and  an  effect  of  peace  and  glory. 
And  my  fervent  desires  are  to  be  numbered  with  those 
who  cast  upon  it  their  garments,  or  spread  clothes  by 
the  way,  with  the  utterance  of  "  Hosanna,  blessed  is  he 
that  comcih  in  the  name  of  the  Lord."  Instead  of  in- 
creased ability  to  aid  the  cause  of  righteousness,  there 
is  a  deeper  and  greater  sense  of  nothingness,  and  a 
feeling  that  in  the  creature  dwelleth  no  good  thino-. 
In  this  low,  tried  state,  how  cordial-like  a  few  words 
would  be.  May  I  not  hope  soon  to  hear  from  thee,  and 
if  thou  feel  a  liberty,  please  write  freely  and  fully. 
May  not  a  sister  share  a  sister's  feelings'? 

How  is  our  mutual  friend  S.  L. — resting  from  her 
labors  with  the  comfortable  salutation  of  "well  done,  good 
and  faithful  servant  1" 

In  fulness  of  love  farewell.  Anna. 

To  J.  J . 


Port  Elizabeth,  IQ.th  mo.  20th,  1839. 
Dear  one  : — It  was  my  intention  to  have  written 
directly  after  returning  from  Woodbury,  whither  I  went 
not  without  close  conflict,  both  inward  and  outward,  a 
child  made  sensible  by  necessity  of  its  need  of  strength 
in  itself,  instead  of  leaning  continually  on  the  parental 
shoulderj  and  the  loved  form  enfeebled  by  sickness  and 
bereavement  until  we  are  ready  to  tremble  at  each  re- 
newed attack.  Oh  !  methinks  we  were  never  before 
fully  sensible  how  strongly  we  were  bound  together  in 
unutterable  affection.  In  our  dear  father  are  increas* 
ingly  blended  innocence,  meekness  and  sweetness  ;  yea, 

21 


24-2  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

the  situation  or  state  of  a  liule  child,  which  the  Master 
continueth  to  example  unto,  by  setting  it  as  in  the  midst. 
Truly 

**  The  principle  of  beauty  hath  no  age  , 

It  looketh  forth  e'en  though  the  eye  be  dnq, 

The  forehead  frost-crowned ;  yea  it  looketh  fwth 

Where'er  doth  dwell  a  tender  soul, 

That  in  its  chastened  cheerfulness  would  shed 

Sweet  charity  on  all  whom  God  hath  made." 

I  rejoiced  to  meet  with  dear  Harriet,  but  fear  she 
withheld  what  was  our  due.  "  Who  is  that  wise  ser- 
vant, that  giveth  meat  in  due  season  1"  blessed  is  such 
an  one.  It  was  not,  I  think,  a  time  when  life  rose  into 
great  dominion,  and  yet  I  trust  there  would  have  been 
the  acknowledgment  that  it  was  good  to  be  there.  I 
lodged  at  J.  C.'s  Fifth-day  night ;  my  resting  place  was 
the  very  apartment  which  we  had  occupied  together. 
But,  oh !  my  sister,  is  this  united  labor  at  an  end  ?  My 
mind  has  been  much  with  thee  in  sympathy,  in  unity 
and  encouragement,  while  for  myself  I  felt  sad,  almost 
regretful,  because  the  place  had  been  so  long  looked 
toward  with  desires,  that  if  aught  was  required  of  us  in 
that  part  of  the  vineyard,  it  might  be  in  company  ;  but 
I  now  see  nothing  more  of  Fishing  Creek  than  if  I  had 
never  thought  of  it.  Truly  it  is  not  for  man  to  know 
the  times  and  seasons;  these  the  "  Father  hath  in  his 
own  power."  If  there  can  only  be  a  dwelling  in  the 
truth,  no  matter  how  we  are  disposed  of.  Some  little 
home  duties  and  neighborhood  services  occasionally 
present,  but  there  appears  but  little  qualification  for  any 
-thing.  I  never,  I  think,  more  sensibly  felt  that  the 
work  was  not  finished  until  we  come  to  witness  entire 


ANN     WILLSON.  243 

resigaation,  than  while  sitting  with  an  aged  sick  friend 
on  Second-day  ;  it  is  surely  a  high  attainment,  but  far 
beyond  my  present  experience. 

Move,  dear  one,  in  the  strength  afforded  ;  it  will 
doubtless  prove  sufficient  for  the  day,  and  the  Author 
continue  with,  and  be  the  finisher  of  faith.  I  shall  want 
to  hear  from  thee  again  very  soon,  and  now  who  is  like- 
ly to  journey  with  thee  1  Fear  not,  for  it  is  still  con- 
sistent with  his  good  pleasure  to  give  thee  the  kingdom 
of  peace. 

Father,  I  suppose,  has  spoken  for  himself.  How  re- 
joiced some  of  us  were  on  First-day  to  have  him  and 
dear  mother  gathered  with  us  ;  also  our  precious  sister 
A.  A.  T.  Father,  mother  and  children  ;  surely  a  triple 
cord  is  not  easily  broken,  and  that  which  is  bound  on 
earth  (by  spiritual  sanction)  shall  it  not  also  be  bound 
in  Heaven  1 

Farewell,  dear  one,  with  feelings  of  deep  affection. 

Anna. 

To  J.  J . 

12M  mo.  1839. 
Some  slight  ailments  would  have  caused  quietude, 
had  not  affection  been  strong  and  prevailed  Oh  !  how 
oft  thought  takes  me  beside  thee.  Ah  !  is  not  my  dwel- 
ling according  to  the  little  measure  of  capability  with 
thee  \  and  a  few  days  before  our  last  Monthly  Meeting, 
Fishing  Creek  rose  unexpectedly  with  something  of  the 
old  feeling;  but  as  I  waited  and  meditated,  not  know- 
ing into  what  it  would  grow — no  particular  require- 
ment, nothing  but  the  place  appearing,  and  endeavoring 
to  be  perfectly  still  and  inactive,  it  gradually  faded  and 


244 


FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


passed  away  ;  then  remembered  I  thy  similar  experi- 
ence last  year.  Now,  dear,  what  short  of  spiritual 
sympathy  could  produce  the  like  effect  ;  perhnps  thy 
going  will  prove  sufficient,  and  I  be  excused  ;  for  in- 
deed I  feel  that  "I  am  weak,"  hardly  daring  to  take 
progressive  steps  upon  the  floating  bridge.  But,  my 
precious  sister,  while  I  am  at  present  privileged  to 
remain  in  the  ceiled  house,  let  me  encourage  thee 
to  go  forth  J  the  work  is  before  thee,  and  the  rev/ard  is 
with  it  J  the  pillar  and  cloud  are  still  sure.  He  who 
never  failed  trusting  Israel,  will  not  leave  nor  forsake 
those  whose  confidence  is  in  the  same  source  of 
might  and  power.  And  though  I  have  mingled  with 
thee  in  deep  feeling  on  account  of  the  present  prospect 
and  its  difficulties,  yet  I  have  had  no  fears  for  thee. 
There  will,  I  believe,  be  ability  given  to  run  through  a 
troop,  and  leap  over  a  wall ;  yea,  and  the  ancient  lan- 
guage arises  with  newness  and  applicability,  that  "  in 
all  places  whither  I  bring  thee,  I  will  come  unto  thee, 
and  bless  thee." 

Dear  father  continues  feeble,  and  is  seldom  quite 
clear  of  pain;  mother  only  tolerably  well.  We  have 
all  thought  and  talked  much  of  thee.  Wilt  thou,  dear, 
permit  the  trio  to  be  invisible  companions  1  And  I  have 
one  little  request,  if  time  and  feeling  will  admit,  that 
when  all  is  decided  on,  ere  thou  departs,  please  write 
if  it  be  not  more  than  a  line  or  two,  just  telling  us  how 
thou  art  going  and  who  with  thee.  Nature  is  clothed 
upon  with  solicitude  and  concern,  and  this  would  be  a 
great  relief,  A. 


ANN    WILLSON.  24<5 

To  E.  P . 

Port  Elizabeth,  1839. 

It  is  a  prominent  part  of  enjoyment,  when  I  lie  down, 
to  send  the  thoughts  abroad  on  pleasant  missions  of 
love  and  memory,  to  this,  that  and  the  other  dear  dis- 
tant one,  and  thou  may  be  sure  I  fail  not  to  spend  a 
portion  of  the  time  with  thee;  and  unitedly  we  moral- 
ize on  the  present,  or  unitedly  encourage  one  another 
to  increasing  trust  in  Israel's  abiding  Shepherd,  whose 
flock  know  his  voice.  Ah!  do  they  yield  a  ready 
obedience,  following  not  the  stranger  1  Would  it  were 
thus,  that  so  instead  of  dwelling  in  sterile  and  impov- 
erished spots  of  earth,  where  there  is  neither  dew  nor 
fields  of  offering,  w^e  should  witness  a  being  led  into  and 
feeding  upon  the  green  pastures  of  life. 

That  precious  mother  of  thine,  I  hear  is  much  bet- 
ter. Ah!  you  have  been  kindly  and  tenderly  dealt  with 
in  the  sparing  of  this  relic  of  a  seemingly  past  genera- 
tion ;  for  how  few  attain  her  age,  and  retain  too,  the 
brightness  of  intellect — the  greenness  of  youth. 

I  doubt  not  thanksgiving  oft  arises  to  Him  who  gave 
and  who  has  preserved.      My  love  especially  to  her. 

*  #  *  *  *  # 

To  see  my  sister  at  the  laboring  oar  early  and  late, 
without  putting  forth  even  a  feeble  hand,  is  beyond  my 
philosophy  ;  however  the  straits  are  passed  ;  is  it  not 
said  the  weather  is  variable  1  Surely  life  is  figurative, 
and  we  may  oft  be  instructed.  Rhoda  returned  last 
eve,  and  R.  G.  is  home  again,  and  I  unusually  smart ; 
here  again  is  the  pleasant  realization  of  a  truth  that  not 
only  difficulties  cluster,  but  comforts  come  not  singly. 


21 


246  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


To  E.  P . 

1839. 
Truly,  my  beloved  friend,  to  have  the  name  enrolled 
in  the  records  of  eternal  life  is  indeed  worth  striving 
after.  But  who  feel  that  they  are  safe — what  was 
almost  the  last  counsel  to  the  followers  formerly  1 
and  injunctions  are  not  only  ancient,  but  new  ;  that 
which  is  said  unto  one  is  for  all,  "  watch  and  pray  lest 
ye  enter  into  temptation  ;"  and  the  inclination  to  settle 
down  at  ease  as  if  the  work  was  done,  has  perhaps 
been  a  little  too  much  yielded  to,  insomuch  that  I  have 
perceived  the  necessity  to  guard  against  taking  flight 
on  the  Sabbath  day.  Wert  thou  near,  I  should  doubt- 
less say  a  great  deal  which  I  do  not  feel  warranted  to 
put  upon  paper  ',  and  yet  the  talk  would  not,  I  fear,  be 
to  edification  ;  for  having  used  Master's  funds  accord- 
ing to  the  ability  given,  I  trust  without  (as  dear  old 
A.  C.  said  about  the  money  belonging  to  the  Indians,) 
suffering  a  shilling  to  stick  to  the  pocket,  I  am  poor, 
very  poor,  and  yet  was  well  paid,  for  He  is  an  unfail- 
ing and  rich  rewarder  of  aU  services.  How  mysterious 
are  these  things,  and  yet  how  plain  and  easy  to  be 
understood  ;  hid  from  the  wise  and  prudent  and 
revealed  unto  babes.  Many  an  instructive  lesson  has 
this  late  journey  taught  me ;  divers  seals  have  been 
opened  by  the  Lion  of  the  tribe  of  Judah.  His  is  the 
power  and  to  him  belongs  the  praise.  Truly  the  flesh 
profiteth  nothing.  I  again  feel  entirely  destitute  of  any 
good,  and  have  as  much  need  as  the  smallest  child  of 
seeking  daily  food.  Is  there  not  great  wdsdom  in  the 
orderings  of  Providence  1  the  exercise  of  the  spiritual. 


ANN    WILLSON.  24-7 

as  well  as  bodily  faculties,  is  necessary  to  preserve 
health  and  strength.  Well,  then,  hunger  and  thirst 
induce  labor,  and  eventually  the  fulfilment  of  the  gra- 
cious promise,  blessed  are  these  for  they  shall  be  filled. 

If  life  be  wanting,  that  which  is  lacking  can  not  be 
numbered,  and  yet  how  many  well  disposed  and  seek- 
ing ones  look  for  the  living  among  the  dead,  the  inani- 
mate forms  and  ceremonies  of  sectarianism;  but  reli- 
gion, what  is  it  1  A  vital,  an  active,  a  quickening,  an 
efficacious,  a  redeeming  and  saving  principle,  even 
the  unspeakably  invaluable  gift  or  grace  which  brings 
salvation  and  appears  universally. 

The  new  year  is  near;  we  have  good  tidings  for  you, 
and  I  trust  it  will  be  a  happy  period  to  both  you  and 
us.  The  dear  invalid  so  long  in  bondage  to  disease  is, 
we  hope,  yet  to  be  brought  forth  with  rejoicing  with 
scuind  of  tabret  and  lute,  the  affectionate  heart's  melo- 
dy. Well,  then,  there  are  many  of  us,  and  each  one 
perhaps  a  different  instrument  ;  yet  as  all  are  acted 
upon,  will  we  not  make  a  harmonious  band  tuned  to 
thanksgiving  and  praise  1 

Does  not  age  strengthen  the  ties  of  affection  when 
we  are  ready  to  conclude  they  should  be  loosened  1  but 
not  so,  for  pure  love  is  durable  and  undying. 

'■'  Its  root  is  in  the  lowly  mind, 
Its  blossom  in  the  skies." 

Thy  children  are  remembered  ;  may  they  be  numbered 
with  the  "King's  daughters"  whose  garments  are  of 
wrought  gold. 


248  FAMILIA.R    LETTERS    OF 


To  E.  P . 

1840. 
Precious  one,  the  "scraps"  are  always  acceptable  j 
and  this  economy  is  in  accordance  with  the  counsel 
to  gather  up  the  fragments  that  nothing  be  lost.  A 
word  or  two  is  sometimes  a  quickening  morsel — a 
crumb  of  soul-sustaining  sustenance  being  found  sweet 
to  the  taste  and  good  for  food,  may  produce  a  desire  to 
feed  more  freely  and  fully  upon  the  bread  of  jifej  but 
/  instead  of  being  a  giver,  feel  at  this  season  an  utter 
strippedness,  an  entire  want  of  all  things — impotent 
and  poor,  and  like  some  of  old  times,  lying  at  the 
gate  called  Beautiful  asking  alms.  Here  then,  thou 
similarly  to  Peter  and  John,  goest  up  into  the  temple, 
but  perceiving  the  needy  state  of  others  bestowest  of 
that  which  thou  hast,  desiring  that  the  lame  and  the 
weak  may  be  abilitated  to  walk,  yea  to  leap  and  to 
praise,  not  the  creature  but,  the  Creator,  Him  from 
whom  the  joints  and  ankle  bones  receive  strength. 
Ah!  I  with  thee,  oft  wonder  that  such  poor  little  in- 
struments are  ever  used  ;  but  there  is  great  safety  in 
lowliness.  How  often  when  the  stately  ship  becomes 
the  sport  of  wind  and  wave,  does  the  little  boat  save 
the  crew.  In  the  spiritual,  as  in  the  visible  world,  there 
are  gradations,  and  doubtless  in  wisdom  too;  yet  I 
have  sometimes  thought,  those  who  are  so  well  quali- 
fied and  richly  gifted,  might  with  ease  do  the  work  of 
the  little  ones  who  go  trembling  on  their  way.  Very 
cordially  did  my  feelings  respond  to  the  language  that 
we  were  all  one,  yea  and  I  trust  we  are  in  measure 
united  ;  having  but   the   one  faith,  the  same  baptism, 


ANN    WILI.SOX.  -49 

and  seeking  to  serve  the  same  Master,  we  should  be 
drawn  together  and  centered  in  Him,  let  our  name  or 
profession  be.  what  it  may.  Dell  is  indeed  excellent, 
and  I  have  been  nibbling  upon  it  occasionally  for 
months  past  ;  it  seems  all  kernel  ;  and  we  are  also  much 
interested  in  Blair.  Words  fitly  spoken  are  indeed 
valuable;  but  oh  !  I  have  felt  that  "though  Paul  may 
plant  and  Apollos  water,"  yet  the  hand  of  Deity  can 
alone  give  the  increase.  Ah  !  yes,  there  is  great  need  of 
standing  in  the  power  and  wisdom  of  Truth  ;  'tis  a  place 
of  fearlessness  and  security.  A. 

To  S.  J.  L . 

Port  Elizabeth,  A:th  mo.  lOM,  1840. 
Mr  DEAR  S. — I  did  not  intend  that  a  month  should 
elapse  ere  I  gave  written  evidence  of  the  acceptability 
of  thine,  dear  sister;  do  we  not  feel  a  union  which  will 
warrant  this  affinity,  if  indeed  I  may  venture  to  hope 
there  is  in  me  any  claim  to  the  exalted  and  enduring 
kindredship.  One  is  your  father  and  all  ye  are  brethren. 
His  children  are  all  taught  of  him,  and  great  is  their 
peace.  Alas!  the  propensity  of  resistance  is  too  frequent- 
ly yielded  to  by  thy  friend  A.,  to  keep  her  in  possession 
of  this  priceless  gem.  There  have  been  glimpses  of 
service  at  different  periods,  from  which  I  in  my  little- 
ness shrank,  fearing-  perhaps  the  creature  more  than  the 
Creator,  insomuch  that  there  is  a  going  softly,  if  there 
be  any  ability  to  go  at  all,  and  have  sometimes  sought 
the  pillow  at  an  early  hour,  for  the  mind  as  well  aa 
body's  sake  ;  many  reasonings  too  arise,  which  but  in- 
crease  weakness,  and  produce  a  destitute  state,  so  that 


250  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

thou  wilt  perceive  I  am  prepared  to  understand  and  to 
sympathise  with  those  who  have  no  possessions,  but 
stand  in  need  of  all  things.  And  oh  !  can  we  not  believe 
that  it  is  the  situation  to  which  appertainelh  the  com- 
fortable promise  of  "blessed  are  the  poor  in  spirit,  for 
theirs  is  the  kingdom  1"  I  have  earnestly  wished  to 
hear  how  matters  eventuate  with  thee  and  our  J.,  for 
surely  my  feelings  very  fully  respond  to  thine  with 
regard  to  her  movements  :  yea,  and  I  verily  believe  too 
that  "the  humble  will  be  taught  of  His  ways,  and  the 
meek  guided  in  the  paths  of  true  judgment ;"  but 
ploughing,  planting,  &c.,  are  not  all  performed  together, 
so  that  the  laborer  may  still  have  to  keep  hold  as  it  were 
of  the  implements  of  husbandry  until  all  be  done  that 
the  season  requires.  I  have  been  daily  with  you  in 
thought  for  some  time,  and  had  the  heart  been  its  own 
interpreter  it  would  doubtless  have  disclosed  its  near- 
ness, but  the  vernal  season  though  upon  our  land  is  not 
upon  the  mind.  No  feeling  in  unison  with  the  warbler 
arises,  no  dove-like  note  calleth  away  from  a  cheerless 
and  sterile  state  ;  what  then  remains  but  quietude,  what 
but  striving  to  keep  the  word  of  patience,  that  so  I  be 
kept  in  a  period  of  trial.  Oh!  for  the  unshaken  confi- 
dence of  one  formerly  who  could  say,  "though  the  fig 
tree  blossom  not,  the  vine  putteth  not  forth,  neither  be 
there  any  herd  in  the  stall,  yet  will  I  joy  and  rejoice." 
Doubtless  these  strippings  are  for  our  good,  for  further- 
ance and  advancement  in  the  way  of  life.  Outward 
circumstances  too  may  combine  to  add  to  this  desolate 
and  dispirited  allotment  ;  it  is  a  time  in  which  the  scene 
around  us  strongly  awakens  sensibility.  My  dear  sis- 
ter   is  still   keenly   alive  to   her   irreparable  loss.     Ah  ! 


ANN    WILLSON.  251 

yes,  every  day  and  its  doings  freshens   feeling,  and  re- 
news the  query 

"  Where  is  he  1  not  by  her  side, 

Whose  every  want  he  loved  to  tend." 

This  period  of  beauty  as  well  as  business  is  a 
strong  remembrancer^  but  the  foliage,  flower,  and  song, 
have  small  charms  for  a  bereaved  heart  ;  they  cannot 
win  or  woo  it  away  from  memory's  indelible  pages. 
Separation  is  a  hard  lesson  ;  the  countenance  sweet 
though  sad,  bespeaks  the  efTort  after  resignation.  He 
of  Gilead  can  alone  administer  healing  balm,  and  thanks 
be  to  his  compassionate  goodness  who  continues  to  salve 
the  wounds  of  those  who  look  unto  his  efficacious  power. 
The  precious  offspring  are  now  turned  toward,  with  in- 
creasing solicitude  that  they  be  wisely  trained,  divinely 
taught ;  and  how  comforting,  how  inspiring  is  the  Mas- 
ter's langnage,  "suffer  little  children  to  come  unto  me, 
for  of  such  is  the  kingdom." 

As  for  dear  father  he  seems  to  be  a  dweller  in  the 
holy  hill,  a  builder  upon  the  rock,  therefore  not  moved 
by  the  varyings  of  existence,  doubtless  witnessing  the 
excellent  situation  of  which  the  Psalmist  bore  testimony, 
"  thou  wilt  keep  him  in  perfect  peace  whose  mind  is 
stayed  on  thee,  because  he  trusteth  in  thee.  A. 


To  L.  S- 


Port  Elizabeth,  Uh  mo.  \2th,  1840. 
My  dear  Lydia  : — Thy  acceptable  letter  arrived  yester- 
day. Its  contents  confirmed  me  in  the  belief  that  thou 
hast  encompassed  the  mountain  of  discouragement  long 
enough.  "  Speak  unto  my  people  that  they  journey  for- 
ward."    Well,  if  this   direction    had    not  been   obeyed, 


'^0'^  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

would  Israel  ever  have   reached  Caaaan?     Had  Noah  re- 
mained shut  up,  sending  out  no  winged  messenger,  would 
he  have    known  when    the   waters — mark,    dear  one — 
abated,  not   dried  up  ?  and  the   dove    came  to  him   in  the 
evening  with  an  olive  leaf.     Prove  thou  the  depth  of  the 
flood,  for  most  assuredly  methinks  the  peace  branch  would 
be  brought  and  thou  be  called   to  go  forth  out  of  the  ark, 
build  an  altar  and  present  offerings,  which  would   arise 
with  a  savor  of  sweetness,  and  a  confiding  sense  be  expe- 
rienced that  the  earth  shall  be  no  more  deluged;  and  that 
seed  time  and  harvest,  cold  and  heat,  summer  and  winter, 
day  and  night  cease  not,  and  every  beast  and  every  fowl, 
all  that  moveth  on  the  earth,  or  is  in  the  sea  shall  be  de- 
livered  into  thine    hand.     Be  not  then  faithless,  but  be- 
lieving.    One  of  old  continued  hidden  by  the  brook  until 
it   dried  up,  and  the  counsel  was  to  arise  and  journey  to 
where  sustenance  would  be  found.     Here  the  poor   met 
the  poor,  and  they  were  blessed  together — for  Zion's  pro- 
vision, like  the  meal  and  the  oil,  will  be  found  unfailing — 
but  observe  how  and  in  what  manner,  was  it  not  by  obe- 
dience   to  various   divine   requisitions'?     This  appears  to 
have  been,  and  methinks  will  remain  to  be,  the  way.  How 
knew  the  widow  of  Zarephath  that  the  word  of  the  pro- 
phet would  be  verified?      She  believed  in  the  liberality  of 
Him  who    careth  even   for  sparrows,  and  will  He  be  less 
mindful  of  you,  "oh  ye  of  little  faith"?    Instead  of  suppo- 
sing, beloved  friend,  that   thou  art   about  to  eat  the  last 
handful  and  then  die,  lift  up  thine  eyes  to  a  continuance 
of  life  and  increase  of  food,  if  thou ^r.s^  give  of  that  which 
is  yet  in  thine  house. 

Dear  E.  has  indeed  a  field  before  her.     Who  is  to   be 
her  yoke  fellow  ?  for  surely  the  mantle  of  Elijah  has  been 


ANN    WILLSON. 


253 


cast  over  an  Elisha,  who  taking  leave  of  the  parent  and 
the  oxen,  will  be  concerned  to  follow.  Now  my  beloved 
sister,  do  not  think  me  severe  if  I  say,  I  should  rejoice  to 
hear  that  thy  own  will  was  taken  in  the  thicket  of  con- 
tending emotions;  that  thine  was  the  offering  for  sacrifice, 
for  I  believe  it  would  (if  consistent  with  heavenly  re- 
quirement) be  a  profitable  initiation  into  the  vineyard  in 
which  I  think  thou  art  designed  to  labor,  and  verily  every 
workman  receiveth  the  penny.  Then  let  not  the  meri- 
dian of  life  be  spent  in  doubts  and  in  fears  and  discourage- 
ment, but  whatsoever  thy  hands  find  to  do,  that  do  with 
thy  might,  and  as  the  day  is,  so  shall  be  the  strength.  I 
am  poor  and  portionless  and  often  shrink  from  being 
another's  helper,  yet  we  have  this  command  and  this  ex- 
ample even  to  the  washing  of  feet ;  and  He,  the  good 
Shepherd,  will  deal  kindly  with  the  young  and  the  weak, 
carrying  the  lambs  in  his  arms  and  leading  gently  those 
whose  minds  are  teeming  with  earnest  desires  not  only  to 
know  but  to  do  His  will.  Now  dear  L.  write  soon,  if  it 
be  only  to  scold  me  for  plain  dealing.  However  worth- 
less this  scrawl  may  be,  it  is  fraught  with  strong  and  pure 
affection,  and  our  mutual  welfare  is  the  fervent  wish  of 
thy  A.  W. 

To  E.  P . 

1840. 
What,  dear  one,  shall  I  say  for  my  omission.  Is  not 
honesty  the  best  policy  ?  The  simple  acknowledgement 
that  sufficient  for  the  day  hath  seemed  the  business  thereof; 
doing  with  our  might  what  the  hands  find  to  do,  is  in  ac- 
cordance with  the  good  book,  and  yet  I  fear  the  effect  is 
small ;  the  efforts  of  the  creature,  what  are  they  '?  I  have 
22 


254. 


FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


renewedly  felt  that  though  ploughing  and  planting  may 
be  done  by  human  hands,  yet  the  increase  proceeds  alone 
from  divine  power.  I  do  not  believe  that  love  has  abated 
one  vi'hit  though  words  have  been  very  few.  Does  the 
"basket"  contain  no  refreshing  fragment?  To  dig  I 
seem  unable,  and  to  beg  am  unvv^illing,  yet  may  not  the 
poor  lift  their  eyes  towards  the  habitations  of  the  rich  and 
secretly  desire  their  hearts  may  receive  the  touch  of  sym- 
pathy 1  Yes,  dear,  I  would  still  have  thee  not  only  to 
think  of  but  speak  to  us.  I  have  sometimes  of  late  thought 
of  Jonah  and  his  endeavors  to  avoid  an  important  and  try- 
ing mission,  and  for  this  cause  he  was  overwhelmed  by 
the  billows. 

Our  dear  sister  improves  astonishingly  ;  it  is  almost  in- 
credible to  suppose  her  walking  and  riding,  when  we  so 
lately  saw  her  as  it  were  on  the  edge  of  eternity.  Who 
knows  what  this  semblance  of  resurrection  will  or  m.ay 
produce.  Truly  the  ways  of  divine  disposal  are  in  the  deeps 
and  past  finding  out.  I  am  sometimes  ready  to  say,  life 
or  the  reverse,  joy  or  sorrow,  so  that  the  feet  may  be 
more  firmly  established. 

As  the  heat  increases,  dost  thou  not  think  about  the 
country,  and  couldst  thou  not  be  induced  to  make  the  Port 
a  holiday  place?  There  are  hearts  here  that  would  wel- 
come thee  and  dear  cousin  L.  too  ;  how  we  would  like  to 
help  rebuild  her  health  and  strength.  We  have  nothing 
new  to  invite  your  attention  to,  nothing  to  arrest  the  eye 
or  ear,  but  where  heart  meets  heart  in  reciprocal  and  en- 
deared feeling,  the  query  is,  lack  ye  anything?  Is  not 
the  response  similar  to  that  of  the  disciples  ?  "  Nothing.'* 


ANN    WlLLSO-\. 


To  L.  S- 


255 


Port  Elizabeth,  2d  mo.  3d,  1841. 
My  dear  Lydta  : — Though  we  are  momentarily  expect- 
ing company,  yet  I  feel  as  if  I  must  scratch  at  least  a  few 
lines,  expressive  of  the  welcome  reception  of  thine,  and 
to  encourage  thee  in  making  a  little  effort  to  get  to  Woods- 
town,  and  thence  to  Port  E.;  and  couldst  thou  not  bring 
that  nice  cousin,  our  R.'s  favorite  Mary,  and  one  of  thy 
own  neices  ?  unless  sister  will  give  us  the  pleasure  of  her 
company.  Take  it  into  serious  consideration  dear,  and 
arrange  matters  to  suit  thyself,  so  that  it  does  but  bring  us 
together.  Whether  I  shall  be  at  the  Quarter  is  yet  un- 
certain, but  several  of  the  family  doubtless  will,  and  it 
will  I  expect  cause  me  to  use  greater  exertion  to  be  of 
their  number  since  hearing  of  dear  E.'s  prospect.  I  do 
very  much  hope  she  will  be  drawn  downward  into  our 
borders.  "  How  beautiful  upon  the  mountain  are  the 
feet  of  those  that  bring  glad  tidings  of  good  things ;"  but 
mark,  upon  the  mountain ;  here  is  an  ascension  above  and 
over  the  usual  engrossments  of  life,  and  though  we  may 
sometimes  be  ready  to  conclude  we  hardly  know  the  path, 
much  less  witness  any  advancement  in  it,  this  was  the 
situation  of  one  of  the  disciples  when  he  said,  "  we  know 
not  whither  thou  goest,  and  how  can  we  know  the  way"?" 
And  I  believe  many  a  humble  mind  feels  itself  divested  of 
all  knowledge  and  all  ability  to  walk  heavenward.  Yet 
surely  sight  and  strength  will  be  afforded,  yea  help  from 
the  sanctuary  and  comfort  out  of  Zion  ;  therefore  let  us 
adopt  dear  old  W.  H.'s  council,  ^'never  despair.'^  He  said 
he   had   been  many  years  trying,  and  though  sensible   of 


256  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

short  comings,  yet  he  would  never  give  out.  And  this  is 
in  accordance  v;^ith  the  language  of  the  Psalmist,  "  One 
thing  have  I  desired  of  the  Lord,  that  will  I  seek  after, 
that  I  may  dwell  in  the  house  of  the  Lord  all  the  days  of 
my  life,  to  behold  the  beauty  of  the  Lord,  and  to  enquire 
in  his  temple."  And  the  declaration  is  positive,  "  they 
that  seek  shall  find."  Is  there  not  then  great  reason  for  us 
to  give  thanks  for  these  excellent  and  blessed  promises, 
and  acting  in  the  grain  of  faith,  be  encouraged  to  look 
towards  their  fulfilment  ?  The  covenants  of  divine  good- 
ness are  unchanging  and  unfailing;  if  we  ask  He  will  give. 
Arise  then  my  precious  sister,  take  up  this  bed  of  human 
fears  and  infirmities,  and  thou  wilt,  I  believe,  be  enabled 
to  walk  and  to  rejoice,  for  it  is  the  Father's  good  plea- 
sure, not  only  to  give  the  smiles  of  his  countenance,  but 
also  the  fruit  of  the  land,  the  choice  grapes. 

To  E.  P . 

2nd  mo.  2d,  1841. 
My  precious  Cousin  : — I  might  as  well  honestly  ac- 
knowledge that  I  have  not  only  been  amiss  but  remiss,  in 
not  at  least  penning  an  expression  of  the  acceptability  of 
thine,  for  truly  those  "scraps"  of  thy  kindness  and  affection- 
ate regard  have  often  been  a  morsel  in  the  needful  time, 
With  regard  to  indisposition  I  instructively  remember  the 
answer  of  one  of  our  most  eminent  ancient  worthies, 
*♦  Never  heed,  Divine  Power  is  over  all  weakness,  the  seed 
reigns."  Oh  !  for  such  high  and  holy  attainment  to  know  of 
a  truth  that  the  life  triumphs.  But  this  privileged  and  ex- 
cellent situation  is  not  the  state  of  thy  frail  friend.  I  have 
indeed  known  an  abiding  apart  in  a  desert  place,  yea 
have  witnessed  the  fulfilment   of  the  declaration  that  the 


ANN    WILLSON. 


257 


days  should  come  when  the  Bridegroom  should  be  taken 
away,  then  there  would  be  fasting.  My  bark  is  small,  and 
fears  are  many,  when  the  direction  is  "  thrust  out  a  little 
from  the  land."  I  would  that  I  had  thy  courage  ;  art 
thou  not  designed  for  a  valiant  and  skilful  seaman,  with 
knowledge  of  polar  star  and  compass  and  the  keeping  of  a 
log  book  equal  almost  to  any  captain  ?  Why  then  does 
this  noble  ship  loiter?  Raise  the  anchor,  unfurl  the  sail, 
and  let  it  bound  over  the  billows  whithersoever  the 
Heavenly  Pilot  guideth.  But  what  sayeth  the  word  which 
is  quick  and  powerful,  ''  if  I  will  that  another  tarry  till  I 
come,  what  is  that  to  thee,  follow  thou  me,"  so  here  we 
are  again  brought  into  nothingness.  Thou  sayest  "  the 
storm  will  be  over  and  the  seasons  of  song  and  sunshine 
return."  Well,  T  trust  that  it  will  be  so,  meanwhile  may 
the  mind  be  stayed  on  the  anchor  sure  and  steadfast,  re- 
membering the  language,  "  ye  are  they  that  continued 
v/ith  me  during  temptation,  and  unto  you  I  appoint  a 
kingdom."  There  is  among  men  generally,  much  desire 
for  gain  and  for  preferment.  But  do  they  take  the  right 
course  for  its  attainment?  ''  Many  are  called  but  few  are 
chosen;"  is  it  not  because  they  value  too  highly  the  farm, 
the  merchandise  and  ease,  therefore  turn  away  sorrowful 
and  not  yet  ready  to  part  with  all  for  the  Truth's  sake  ? 
And  what  sayeth  it?  If  any  man  love  anything  more 
than  me,  he  is  not  worthy  of  me.  This  brings  us  to  a 
proving  spot  and  the  keeping  back  "a  part  of  the  price  of 
the  land"  brings  darkness  and  desolation.  But  why  talk 
thus  to  thee  who  art  so  oft  eating  of  the  dainties  of  the 
divine  table  ?  and  in  seasons  when  thou  art  thus  favored 
let  some  of  the  gathered  up  and  overabundant  fragments 
come  Port-ward.  Love,  much  love,  not  onlv  to  thyself 
22* 


258  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    01' 

husband  and  daughters,  but  thy  invaluable  parent,  not 
forgetting  those  pleasant  ties  of  the  third  generation  which 
with  freshness  and  beauty  twine  round  her  as  the  ivy 
about  the  oak.  Farewell  dear,  and  write  whenever  incli- 
nation and  feeling  prompt. 

To  J.  J . 


First  day  afternoon,  184-1. 
Beloved  one: — The  perusal  of  thine  was  an  indulgence 
and  gratification  ;  at  the  same  time,  I  could  not  but  fear 
that  the  shade  of  my  own  mind  had  (though  unintention- 
ally,) been  thrown  over  thee.  Very  sensible  am  I  of 
choice  with  regard  to  engagements:  and  have  had  renew- 
edly  to  recollect  the  language  of  Him,  who  said,  I  came 
not  to  do  mine  own  but  the  will  of  Him  who  sent  me.  I 
hope  to  profit  by  such  intimation — I  had  almost  said  gentle 
reproof — but  it  was  not  till  in  the  midst  of  much  depres- 
sion and  discouragement  I  had  turned  entirely  from  lean- 
ing on  and  looking  to  sisterly  aid — which  to  a  weak  one 
like  me  is  so  desirable  and  so  grateful, — that  I  saw  my 
own  way,  and  found  a  strong  attraction  to  some  of  our 
neighboring  meetings,  to  visit,  to  sympathise  with,  and  if 
possible  to  strengthen  the  things  that  are  weak  ;  the  sick 
can  best  enter  into  feelino;  with  the  sick — and  thou2;h 
frail  and  feeble  ourselves,  be  the  instruments  of  a  little 
good,  and  consolate  or  cheer  a  drooping  mind  by  causing 
it  to  perceive  that  similar  trials  and  exercises  are  experi- 
enced by  others,  and  that  'tis  only  by  believing  and  trust- 
ing in  Him  who  is  able  to  call  from  death  and  renew  us  in 
life,  that  we  shall  become  witnesses  of  his  glory.  As 
before  hinted,  might  I  choose  for  myself,  I  should  far  pre- 
fer being  linked  with  thee  to  walking  alone  in  a  path  for 


ANN    WILLSON. 


259 


which  T  seem  to  have  no  ability.     But  precious  one  be  en- 
couraged, and  I  too  will  try  to  raise  my  head  in  hope  ; 
surely  nothing  will  be  required  which  if  we  singly  depend 
on  the  alone  Helper  of  his  people,  He  will  not  enable  to 
perform.     I  oft  think  it  strange  that  we  cannot  rise  above 
creaturely  depression,  wholly  relying  on  the  Creator,  who 
is  still  abundantly  able  to  speak  light  and  life  into  exist- 
ence;  to  separate   the   leaves  from   the   earth,  and  give 
dominion  over  nature.     With  regard  to  the  present  mis- 
sion, I  doubt  not  E.  P.  is  the  one  on  whom  the  lot  should 
fall ;  and  rightly  yoked  and  sent  forth   by  the   Master  of 
assemblies,  from  him  you    will  receive  the   reward.     Go 
then,  nothing  doubting,  thou  hast  tarried  long  enough  by 
the  seaside   (near  the  conflicting  billows)  and  I   believe 
there  are  seeking  minds  to  whom  thou  wilt  be  prepared  to 
minister.     Is  there  still  at  times  a  turning  towards  Fishing 
Creek  and  its  Particular  meetings'?     Continue  dearest  to 
tell  me   all  thy  heart,  and  we  may  yet  be  permitted  to 
comfort    and  help  one  another.     Though  I  now   feel   far 
from  being  in  a  capacity  to  move  anywhere   or  in  any 
way,  and  in  fervency  of  spirit  can  only  breathe  the  inter- 
cession of  one  formerly,  "  if  thou  wilt  thou  canst  make  me 
clean." 

To  A.  L.  T . 

mw  York,  4th  mo.  lOth,  1841. 
Dear  Ones  : — Again  it  is  First-day,  and  we  might  sup- 
pose the  women  now  possessed  a  large  share  of  the  zeal 
of  former  times,  for  many  are  seen  in  the  church-going 
paths  doubtless  seeking  the  Master  though  he  be  risen,  and 
is  not  to  be  found  in  the  forms  and  ceremonies  of  sectari- 
anism ;  yet   mark  the   condescending  goodness  to  the  sin- 


260  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

cere  in  heart,  He  revealeth  himself,  and  directeth  how 
and  where  they  may  find  Him.  *  * 

I  was  much  gratified  with  receiving  our  dear  R.'s  let- 
ter, and  not  less  pleased,  methinks,  than  herself  with  her 
advancement  in  school.  Oh !  if  these  beloved  plants  do 
but  grow  up  in  the  way  they  should  go,  are  but  of  the 
heavenly  garden,  and  profit  by  celestial  showers,  will  it 
not  richly  repay  labor,  and  compensate  for  the  want  of 
worldly  treasure?  surely  their  well-doing  is  more  to  us 
than  gold  or  silver.  Continue,  my  dear  sister,  thy  watch- 
ful guardian  care,  and  I  cannot  but  believe  it  will  in  due 
time  bring  a  harvest  of  reward.  My  heart  is  filled  with 
earnest  desires  for  them,  and  seldom  is  the  head  laid  upon 
the  pillow  without  a  petition  for  their  preservation  ;  per- 
haps distance  and  absence  deepen  ardency  of  feeling, 
and  induce  often  to  raise  the  thoughts  heavenward  on 
your  behalf,  and  if  now,  as  aforetime,  by  a  presentation  of 
the  children  into  the  Master's  presence  he  will  condescend 
to  lay  his  hand  upon,  bless  and  protect  them,  a  concerned 
aunty's  desires  will  be  answered ;  earthly  favors  are 
uncertain  and  unsatisfying,  but  heavenly  good  is  en- 
during, is  sure.  Would  then,  that  they  choose  this  dura- 
ble treasure,  this  abiding  inheritance. 

"  They  that  seek  me  early  shall  find  me,"  said  a  minis- 
ter of  the  Baptist  sect  last  First-day   at   R .,  while 

standing  waist  deep  in  elementary  water,  and  dipping  a 
young  girl  in  the  yielding  flood  ;  and  he  might  have  added 
"  A  flower  that  is  ofiered  in  the  bud  is  no  vain  sacrifice:" 
but  his  was  an  outward  view,  ours  would  be  an  inward 
subjection  and  an  up-giving  of  the  heart  ;  an  altar  and  an 
offering  there,  knowing  the    wonderful   Counsellor,  the 


ANN    WILLSON. 


261 


Prince  of  Peace,  the  King  immortal,  to  rule  and  reign. 
At  the  time  alluded  to  there  were  fourteen  baptised,  whe- 
ther it  will  be  to  the  forsaking  of  the  evil  of  their  ways 
is  uncertain.  I  was  an  observer  from  an  upper  window, 
and  though  so  entirely  faithless  was  interested.  The 
minister  made  many  pretty,  but  not  convincing  allusions 
to  scripture.  There  were  several  hundreds  congregated 
at  the  water's  edge,  and  it  was  an  imposing  scene. 

The  season  of  youth  is  naturally  to  be  considered  one  of 
enjoyment,  but  oh  !  not  intended  that  they  should  take  the 
wings  of  the  morning  and  flee  from  the  presence  of  the 
heavenly  Mentor  or  Counsellor  in  the  heart.  An  upright 
good  child  is  truly  an  honor  to  his  family.  I  do  hope  our 
juniors  will  be  a  credit  to  us;  never  doing  anything  in 
secret  that  they  would  be  ashamed  of  openly.  Sons  have 
much  in  their  power.  Oh  !  that  their  mother's  latter  days 
may  be  blessed  with  their  upright  steppings  and  doings. 

We  are  now  about  goino;  to  Greenbrook,  where  I  expect 
to  remain  a  week.  Much  love  to  our  dear  relatives,  not 
a  day,  nay  nor  scarcely  an  hour  passes  without  a  little 
dedication  of  thought  to  you-ward.  Anna. 

To  E.  P . 

8M  mo.,  184.1. 
My  DEAR  Cousin  E. — Feeling  hath  no  fellow  ;  can 
words  soothe  the  stricken  heart  1  The  tidings  of  yesterday 
did  indeed  surprise  us  ;  we  were  mute  with  astonishment. 
Truly,  the  ways  of  Heaven  are  past  finding  out ;  and  what 
can  we  poor  finite  mortals  do,  but  like  one  anciently,  bow 
in  submission  saying,  ''the  Lord  giveth  and  he  taketh 
away,  blessed  be  his  name."     My  arm  as-  it  were  encir- 


262  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

cles  thee  in  sympathetic  affection,  my  precious  sister,  but 
human  participation  how  unavailing;  it  can  give  tear  for 
tear,  but  cannot  speak  the  tempestuous  ocean  into  peace. 
A  little  after  two  yesterday  afternoon  I  laid  down,  taking 
a  book  as  usual,  but  could  not  read,  sadness  clothed  the 
mind;  a  scene  of  change  or  illness  presented  to  the  mental 
vision.  I  thought  of  my  niece  R.  and  her  distance  from  us, 
&c.,  but  strove  to  overcome  the  uncomfortable  sensations 
and  be  composed  ;  remaining  in  the  chamber  till  near  four. 
Ah !  is  there  not  a  magnetism  of  soul  ?  Is  not  spirit  drawn 
spirit-ward  in  holy  and  sympathetic  oneness  ?  I  thought 
so  while  at  Woodstown,  particularly  in  our  select  gather- 
ing, and  I  now  think  there  is  fresh  confirmation.  Would 
that  I  could  be  with  you  a  few  days,  but  if  separate  in  the 
grosser  material  of  the  body,  I  trust  there  is  a  nearness, 
yea,  a  union  of  mind  ;  lean  on  me  then  beloved  one,  nay, 
lean  not  on  flesh  but  on  the  all  powerful  arm  of  Jehovah. 
This  is  indeed  a  heavy  trial,  but  He  who  seeth  meet  to 
prove  as  in  the  furnace,  will  sustain  and  support.  I  have 
had  to  remember  that  the  Master  not  only  bore  the  cross 
and  wore  the  crown  of  thorns,  but  had  offered  to  him  a 
cup  of  vinegar  and  hyssop,  and  when  difficulties  and  suffer- 
ings thickened,  what  said  he  ?  "  The  cup  that  my  father 
giveth  me,  shall  I  not  drink  it  ?"  Ah  1  would  that  we 
might  follow  him  who  declared  himself  to  be  the  way, 
then  indeed  should  we  be  abilitated  to  utter  the  language, 
"  not  our  will,  oh  Lord!  but  thine  be  done."     *         * 

I  doubt  not  the  late  dispensation  will  be  a  loud  call  to 
many  youthful  hearts  to  come  out  of  terrestrial  captivity, 
to  mount  higher,  to  hearken  to  the  invitation  of  the 
angel,  to  ascend  to  where  maybe  seen  the  New  Jerusalem 
and  the  Bride,  the  adorned  spouse.     Dear  Mary  was  a 


ANN    WILLSON.  263 

sweet  and  choice  plant,  such  as  best  become  the  Garden  of 
Eden;  and  how  oft  is  verified  in  our  experience  that 

"The  brightest,  gentlest,  and  the  best, 
Seek  earliest  out  the  land  of  rest." 

To  M.  S 

Port  Elizabeth^  Sth  mo.,  1841. 
To  thee,  my  dear  cousin,  I  meant  to  have  spoken  some 
days  ago.  It  will,  methinks,  be  the  best  evidence  I  can 
give  of  my  improved  state  of  health  ;  the  raiment  of  mor- 
tality is  still  mercifully  dispensed,  for  what  wise  purpose 
is  beyond  finite  vision.  But  I  would  that  my  future 
steppings  may  prove  worthy  of  lengthened  out  existence, 
for  indeed  there  seems  a  deep  responsibility  in  the  exten- 
sion of  life.  I  marvel  when  I  muse  on  the  mysterious 
ways  of  a  wise  Providence,  who  sees  meet  early  to  call 
the  young,  the  strong,  and  the  beautiful — the  choice 
plants  of  earth — these  He  calls  to  adorn  the  garden  above  ; 
while  the  frail,  the  fragile,  the  seemingly  useless,  are 
spared.  This  reflection  arises  from  the  recent  loss  of 
cousin  E.  P.'s  most  lovely  daughter,  who  was  very  sud- 
denly removed  from  an  earthly,  to  I  trust  a  heavenly 
Parent's  house.  As  far  as  we  have  yet  learned,  the  circum- 
stances of  the  case  appear  very  similar  to  our  bereavement. 
Surely  we  know  not  at  what  hour  the  messenger  cometh, 
whether  at  the  morning  watch  or  mid-day,  hence  the 
propriety  of  the  injunction,  '-be  ye  also  ready."  Cousin 
E.  is  one  of  the  wise  mothers  who  neglected  not  to  seek 
understanding,  and  labor  for  wisdom  ;  but  the  late  event, 
she  acknowledges,  almost  overpowers  the  little  portion  of 
strength  which,  as  a  kind  of  heavenly  inheritance,  she 
seemed  to  possess;  the  dispensation  was  so  unexpected, 


264-  FAMILIAR    LETTERS  OF 

and  so  brief  was  the  time  of  illness,  that  when  they  were 
really  alarmed,  she  was  about  departing  ;  such  changes 
cause  deep  conflict;  from  the  tenor  of  a  sweet  little  note 
to  me  she  wrestles  for  tranquility  and  resignation,  and 
will  ere  long,  I  doubt  not,  like  a  prince  prevail.  But  let 
me  cease  to  tarry  at  the  habitation  of  sorrow,  and  turning 
toward  you  number  our  blessings.        -^        ^k         *        # 

To  E.  P . 

^thmo.  1841. 
Dear  Ones  : — I  have  again  retreated  to  my  own  apart- 
ment for  rest,  but  it  seems  as  if  I  wanted  to  keep  close 
beside  you  ;  the  feet  of  the  mind  easily  steps  over  space 
and  places  me  in  your  midst.  I  think,  dear  E.  of  thy 
desolate  heart.  Heaven  has  seen  meet  to  gather  an  opening 
bud,  that  its  more  full  expansion  might  be  in  the  garden 
above,  sheltered  from  rude  winds  and  the  blights  of  earth. 
My  thoughts  have  been  led  to  the  remembrance  of  Him 
who  was  devotedly  loved  by  a  little  chosen  band,  but  He 
whose  eye  was  not  finite,  saw  their  danger,  that  they 
inclined  to  settle  down  satisfied  with  their  attachment  to 
flesh  which  profiteth  not,  and  what  said  He  ?  "  It  is  expedi- 
ent for  you  that  I  go  away  ;"  mark  the  wisdom  ;  they  are 
first  strongly  attracted  to  excellencies  and  perfections,  of 
which  they  had  evidence  ;  then  there  is  a  necessity  to 
go,  that  so  being  the  object  of  their  aflTections,  they  might 
be  drawn  after  him,  and  how  consolingly  he  assures  them 
that  there  are  ''  many  mansions,"  and  that  his  going  is  to 
prepare  a  place  for  them.  Ah  I  I  have  been  ready  to  be- 
lieve that  this  precious  one  hath  gone  a  little  earlier  than 
some  of  her  contemporaries,  to  smooth  the  path,  to  make 
preparation,  to  produce   something  like  a  loosening  and  a 


ANJS    WILLSON.  265 

weaning  from  the  enervating  breast  of  the  world  ;  nour- 
ished and  cherished  by  the  milk  of  the  kingdom,  the 
pinions  of  the  mind  strengthen,  and  it  is  fitted  for  flight 
to  and  reunion  in  the  tearless  realms  of  never-ending 
bliss.  Be  comforted  then  dear  E.,  and  endeavor  to  view 
the  severe  dispensation  as  a  wise  allotment,  believing  that 
"  By  love  directed,  and  in  mercy  meant, 
Are  trials  suffered,  and  afflictions  sent." 

Joseph  in  his  manifestation  to  his  brethren,  besought 
them  not  to  sorrow,  for  said  he,  God  did  send  me  before 
you  to  preserve  life.  Ah  !  He  worketh  by  means,  and 
who  shall  say  what  doest  thou  or  wherefore  ?  The  land  of 
promise  is  still  designed  for  those  who  would  escape  bon- 
dage, and  go  forth  out  of  Egypt  following  a  high  and 
holy  Leader,  who  will  prove  himself  our  keeper  and 
feeder,  if  in  him  only  we  trust,  bringing  all  home  to  the 
heavenly  fold. 

Methinks  I  behold  the  departed  one  presiding  over  the 
destiny  of  her  family — becoming  the  guardian  angel  of 
her  precious  sisters — gently  calling,  secretly  inviting  with 
radiant  and  beaming  countenance.  And  thou,  beloved 
mother,  may  thy  bow  continue  to  abide  in  strength,  and 
thy  children  yielding  to  the  sanctifying  power  of  truth, 
not  only  bring  upon  themselves  parental  benediction,  but 
as  saith  the  patriarch,  the  blessing  of  heaven  above  and  of 
that  which  lieth  under.  Do  I  not  see  thee  wiping  thy 
eyes  and  smiling  through  tears,  uttering  in  resignation  the 
language,  "  Master  doeth  all  things  msely  and  well  ?" 
Such  a  state  is  wonderfully  affecting  to  beholders.  It  is 
like  the  sun  struggling  to  part  and  peer  through  gathered 
clouds — and  light  will  obtain  the  victory.  This  though  a 
humbling  and  a  proving,  yea  deeply  trying,  is  also  a 
23 


266  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 

favored  season,  I  am  emboldened  to  believe — bear  us  in 
rememberance  then,  for  the  visitations  of  the  Most  High 
are  vi^ith  instruction.  Surely  from  the  bottom  of  Jordan 
memorials  are  still  produced. 

Farewell  beloveds  all ;  may  Israel's  unslumbering  and 
protecting  Shepherd  encamp  round  about  you  and  us — 
in  his  presence  there  is  safety.  A.  W. 

TO    THE    HOME    CIRCLE. 

JYew  York,  9th  mo.  28th,  1842. 

Dear  ones  all  : — It  is  pleasant  to  be  able  to  evidence 
by  the  testimony  of  one's  own  pen  that  we  are  in  com- 
fortable health  and  spirits;  of  the  latter  you  would  not 
doubt  were  you  within  the  sound  of  the  little  wordy 
member.  We  had  an  agreeable  journey,  and  reached  our 
destination  about  five  o'clock  P.  M.  There  were  some 
interesting  and  highly  intelligent  occupants  of  our  car, 
and  a  good  deal  of  spirited  and  amusing  conversation 
appeared  to  shorten  the  miles.  *  *  I  seem  not  to  forget 
you  for  a  moment,  and  on  retiring  feel  as  if  I  lacked  the 
parental  kiss,  amounting  to  or  signifying  a  nightly  benedic- 
tion. Ah  !  is  there  not  a  blessing  in  unity  and  harmony, 
partaking  of  what  is  so  sweetly  expressed  as  belonging  to 
the  Mount  where  the  dew  of  Heaven  rests,  with  the  com- 
fortable promise  of  life  evermore. 

The  few  moments  in  dear  Aunt  J.'s  chamber  were  plea- 
sant. There  is  a  greeting  of  spirit  as  well  as  salutation  of 
body,  and  thou  dear  L.,  who  art  a  devoted  child  to  one  of 
the  most  excellent  of  mothers,  (and  I  marvel  not  at  the 
dedication.)  strive  for  the  balance  of  the  sanctuary  which 
keeps  natural  love  in  its  place,  and  adds  thereto  a  holy 
and  unfeigned  affection  for  the  Father  of  our  many  com- 


ANN    WILLSON.  267 

forts  and  sure  mercies,  who  seekelh  to  clothe  us  with  robes 
of  purity  and  righteousness,  that  we  may  eventually 
become  members  of  His  own  glorious  family  ;  let  it  not 
be  esteemed  in  thy  view  as  an  hard  saying,  that  if  any 
one  "  love  anything  more  than  me,  he  is  not  worthy  of 
me."  Thy  own  dear  parent  would  not  be  valued  less, 
but  the  dispenser  of  good  gifts  more;  and  He  not  only 
gives  a  right  understanding  but  adds  great  peace  thereto. 

To  A.  L.  T . 

J\rew  York,  \2th  mo.  20th,  1842. 

My  dear  Sister  : — This  is  one  of  my  most  comfortable 
days,  else  the  pen  would  not  be  used,  for  I  am  neither  migh- 
ty in  word  nor  deed  ;  and  yet  valiant  in  affection,  which 
deepens  and  widens  with  absence,  flowing  in  a  broad  and 
still  broader  channel  as  time  rolls  onward;  and  is  this  feel- 
ing reciprocated  ?  Where  are  my  sisters  beside  thyself  ? 
I  will  not  believe  that  they  think  not  of  the  invalid, 
because  of  bodily  invisibility,  but  now  as  aforetime  procras- 
tination is  a  disposition  existing  in  the  human  mind. 
Love,  that  precious  gift  from  above,  continues  to  rule  and 
reign  in  a  greater  or  less  degree  in  each  dear  heart;  will 
not  the  former  measure  ere  long  produce  a  flood  tide 
which  shall  reach  this  metropolitan  isle,  bearing  evidence 
of  congeniality  and  sympathy  of  spirit  truly  soothing  and 
consoling? 

Present  me  in  affectionate  remembrance  to  each  and  all 
of  them.  A. 


*2G8  FAMILIAR    LETTERS    OF 


To  A.  L.  T- 


JVew  York,  \Wi  mo.  31  sf,  1842. 
A  happy  New  Year  to  you  all,  and  Heaven's  choicest 
gifts,  a  clear  conscience  in  a  healthy  frame ;  that  so  you 
may  as  was  designed,  enjoy  the  rich  blessings  of  life  and 
peace,  with  heart's  harmonizing  in  nature's  chorus  of 
glory  to  its  High  Author,  good  will  and  kindly  feeling  to 
fellow-beings.  I  send  not  the  fatling — a  turkey  or  goose — 
for  the  celebration  of  the  new  era,  but  a  little  volume  of 
useful  hints  which  have  interested  me,  and  may  prove 
profitable  to  you.  I  want  that  dear  R.  especially,  should 
peruse  it  attentively,  with  a  resolution  to  apply  and  put  in 
practice,  not  suddenly  and  at  once,  but  one  thing  after 
another,  as  leisure  will  permit,  and  occasion  and  necessity 
require  ;  that  so  she  may  eventually  become  a  useful  as 
well  as  intelligent  member  of  the  human  family.  And  will 
not  our  boys  while  reading  this  engaging  work,  rejoice 
that  there  is  fun  and  frolic  allowed  for  health's  sake  ?  yea 
and  for  nature's  too,  for  it  is  in  accordance  with  her  laws! 
But  let  them  beware,  that  in  their  innocent  merriment 
they  do  not  associate  with  the  quarreler,  the  story-teller, 
the  truant,  the  loiterer,  the  disobedient  and  deceptive 
child  ;  if  they  read  that  best  of  books,  the  Bible,  they 
will  find  from  the  very  earliest  creation  sin  has  been 
forbidden  fruit.  Of  all  the  trees  in  the  garden,  said  the 
Maker  of  this  beautiful  world,  may  ye  freely  partake, 
save  one ;  and  this  law  against  transgression  continues  to 
be  in  full  force  in  our  day  as  in  olden  time.  If  they  act 
with  great  uprightness,  and  on  no  occasion  depart  from 
truth,  their  limits  and  enjoyments  will  be  enlarged,  be- 
cause we  shall  have  confidence  in  them. 


ANN    WILLSON.  269 

Thy  letters,  dear  sister,  were  a  cordial,  a  real  mental 
stimulus,  and  for  a  time  we  seemed  to  be  mingling  in 
comm.union  with  you,  despite  the  many  measured  miles 
and  the  cold  fleecy  covering  of  earth's  surface.  Seventh 
day  morn  being  not  only  sunny  without,  but  within  my 
tabernacle  also,  I  promenaded  the  piazza  without  feeling 
any  bad  effects.     This  is  my  boundary  line. 

A.  F.  was  announced  a  little  while  ago,  and  being  in 
better  trim,  I  presented  myself.  I  sometimes  feel  no  dis- 
position to  see  anybody  or  anything,  hardly  the  little  pet 
pigeon  which  in  its  snowy  whiteness  and  winning  beauty 
travels  all  over  the  yard,  occasionally  popping  into 
Abby's  apartment  with  its  alms-asking  look  of  a  little 
dinner,  please.  *  *  >fs  *  * 

Anna. 

To  J.  J . 

J^ew  York,  Uh  mo.  30th,  1843. 
Dear  One  : — Mentally  I  have  greeted  thee  oft,  but  the 
frailties,  or  rather  the  infirmities  of  this  "  tabernacle  of 
wastage,"  has  kept  me  more  inactive  than  I  could  wish  j 
and  a  still  tremulous  hand  will  most  likely  make  devious 
wanderings  from  a  straight  line,  but  this  as  well  as  other 
improprieties  I  know  thou  wilt  excuse,  and  receive  it 
merely  as  as  an  evidence  of  continued  sisterly  affection. 
Your  annual  celebration  is  approaching,  and  I  would  fain 
be  sharer  with  you  of  good  things.  1  hope  instead  of  the 
sound  of  the  saw  and  hammer,  (instruments  of  noise  and 
discord,)  the  various  parts  of  the  building  may  come 
together  harmoniously,  insomuch  that  the  language  of  the 
Psalmist  can  again  be  adopted — how  pleasant  to  dwell  in 


270  FAMILIAR    LETTERS. 

unity — then  indeed  would  invigorating  dew  descend  and 
life  be  witnessed. 

My  abiding  has  mostly  been  in  low  places,  and  I  have 
seldom  been  capacitated  for  any  spiritual  exertion;  and 
have  sometimes  marvelled  that  I  could  be  at  all  satisfied 
with  such  an  inactive  state  ;  but  the  recollection  of  a  little 
child  was  forcibly  and  consolingly  brought  to  view — that 
of  it  the  parents  required  but  little,  except  that  it  keep 
in  innocency,  and  here  was  exercise  for  watchfulness  and 
humility.  A  good  deal  of  kindness  and  affectionate  regard 
has  been  manifested  by  those  who  were  hitherto  almost  or 
altogether  strangers  ;  but  the  most  comforting  and  memo- 
rable visit  was  from  M.  B.,  and  R.  H.,  when  the  former 
was  on  her  homeward  way.  Truly  "  beautiful  upon  the 
mountains  are  the  feet  of  those  who  bring  glad  tidings  of 
good  things." 

Please  present  me  in  affectionate  rememberance  to  inter- 
ested inquirers,  especially  S.  J.  L.,  of  whom  I  heard  a  good 
report :  viz.,  that  she  is  living  upon  the  fruits  of  industry. 
As  for  myself  a  feeling  of  love  for  those  who  are  fulfilling 
their  duty  is  the  chief  sense  afforded  of  discipleship. 

Thine  1  trust  in  the  durable  attachment  of  the  Truth. 

A.  W. 


J 


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